Paulo Macchia will discuss his Byera Hadley research project exploring how local governments across Australia have used effective procurement processes to engage architects who deliver high-quality public buildings.

We'll gather on Friday evening for a relaxed barbecue dinner outside the Great Cobar Museum, offering the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow delegates while experiencing one of the town's most significant heritage buildings. During the evening, attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the museum and its thoughtfully restored exhibitions.

Melissa Hollis leads engagement and communication at the NSW Architects Registration Board. Melissa will highlight the public-interest work of NSW ARB and the various ways NSW ARB supports the profession across the career journey, from students and graduates to experienced practitioners.

Our Friday program, along with Thursday's Journey Workshop, will be held at the Cobar Youth & Community Centre—known locally as the "Youthie" - a much-loved community facility transformed through the long-standing collaboration between DunnHillam Architecture & Urban Design and the Cobar Shire Council.

Originally a modest concrete block building with deep community significance, the centre has been thoughtfully reimagined to provide an accessible, climate-responsive and welcoming civic space.

Jonathan Temple of DunnHillam Architecture & Urban Design will reflect on the practice’s long-standing collaboration with the community of Cobar. He will address the process of delivering a series of transformative civic projects throughout the town as well as broader town revitalisation initiatives.

Tim Lee, Principal of Tim Lee Architects, is based in Goulburn NSW and is a Founding Member and current President of RAA. Tim has been involved as creative director delivering regional architecture events and programs for over 10 years and is committed to providing high quality events supporting and advocating for the value architecture and regional practice.

Ian Sercombe is director of a small architectural practice based on Worimi Country, on the NSW Midnorth Coast, Australia. He has been a member of RAA since its inception and has attended most of the in-person events around the country. He has a strong focus on community, being on local committees for surf life saving, community association and running the local cricket competition, as well as organising several local music festivals.

RAA is pleased to be working with the Cobar Shire Council for our September event, a municipality that has demonstrated a strong and sustained commitment to investing in the community through infrastructure and place-based projects that strengthen liveability, participation, and local identity.