Farewell Wes

Photo by Tom Roe shows Wes at the 2023 Beginnings event with colleague and co-creative director Renee MGuinn

The RAA community is deeply saddened at the passing of Local Architect South Coast Founding Director, Wesley Hindmarch. He passed over Easter, following a long illness.

A Founding Member of RAA, Wesley was deeply committed to regional architecture and believed that good design should be accessible to everyone. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to support and advocate for regional practitioners, building strong relationships with local councils in both Tasmania, Victoria and NSW while championing opportunities for architects to work within their own communities.

He also placed great importance on listening and learning, forming meaningful relationships with Indigenous groups and ensuring their voices were respected and reflected in the places we help shape. Through his role as co-creative director of RAA’s 2023 event Beginnings, Wes enabled meaningful connections and learning for the RAA community in Nowra, seeking to better understand Ghadungal Marring (a Dharawal-led cultural education organisation).

Wesley’s contribution to architecture was significant, with award-winning work across both residential and community projects. Most notably, the Artie Smith Oval development, which he regarded as his greatest achievement, stands as a reflection of his commitment to community, place, and thoughtful design.

Wesley’s influence has been profound, both to those he worked with and to the broader community of regional practitioners. The values he established—care, integrity, and a deep respect for place and people - will continue to guide those he worked alongside.

Wes’ life was celebrated with friends and family over the recent long weekend and our thoughts are with them all at this time.