The Agenda - Autumn 2018 - Evolve - Online

THE AGENDA autumn 2018
v0l. 58 no. 1
PIA Journal of Queensland and the Northern Territory
ISSN: 2209-0363
EVOLVE

WOMEN IN social FIRE gUIDE TO
PLANNING media RESILIENCE PERTH

Delivering favourable outcomes

from project planning...

...to approvals

Our planning and environment legal team advises private and public
sector entities, and their advisors achieve favourable outcomes.

Expertise includes due diligence, approvals, appeals, regulatory compliance, local government
advisory, resumption and compensation, infrastructure agreements and resolution of planning and
environmental issues impacting different categories of developments.

Stuart Macnaughton Troy Webb

Partner Partner
07 3233 8869 07 3233 8928
[email protected] [email protected]

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n this issue

05 06 07

President’s message PIA calendar Planner’s guide to Perth
- David Burrow - Brittany Griffiths

10 12 14

Fire resilience Social media in planning Commonwealth Games
- Laura Gannon and - Anonymous planner health and innovation
Molly Mowery hub
- Kathy Kruger
20
22 24

Lessons from Smart City Women in Planning The future of energy in
Expo Network Queensland
- Chris Isles - Women in Planning - Nikki Huddy
Network Committee
32
26 28

SEQ growth monitoring Postcard from San Q&A with Thomas
program Francisco Gardiner, Queensland
- Kerry Doss - Christopher Austin Young Planner of the
Year

Editorial committee: Editor: Cover image: PIA Queensland
Will Back Matthew Leman Perth - see page 7 Communications Advisor:
Julie Brook
David Fagan
Thomas Gardiner
Rachel Jones
Richard Moore
Linda Tait
John Van As

4 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Image: David Burrow, 2017 Darwin Beer Can Regatta, held annually since 1974 at Mindil Beach Written by
David Burrow MPIA,
President’s
message NT PIA President

“Evolution: change in the Town Planning Day, members a range of experiences and exposing
characteristics of populations over viewed a news video from 1975 them to very different circumstances.
successive generations.” which announced “new planning
proposals for the reconstruction of In the words of George Bernard
Echoing the Queensland PIA President, Darwin”. The questions being asked Shaw “Progress is impossible without
Todd Rohl, in his message for the in 1975 were strikingly similar to change, and those who can’t change
‘Transform’ edition of this magazine’, those being asked now. This can be their minds can’t change anything.”
Planners are“agents of change”. “The disheartening. However, as planners
principles of change rely on vision, we must remember that to ‘evolve’ is As planners we must be both conscious
having patience and persistence, to develop gradually. of and active in the evolution of
asking the hard questions, being our regions, and open to evolving
knowledgeable, leading by example, We must lead by example and build ourselves.
and building on strong relationships relationships to present visions and
and trust.” strategies which address the hard
questions with the best available
Planning is evolving in the Northern knowledge. However, these visions
Territory. However, as in other states, and strategies will require our patience
this evolution is not likely to happen and persistence. This is the same in
quickly, but rather, gradually and with our individual lives.
resistance.
The Northern Territory is known for
In a recent PIA event for World evolving planners, often giving them

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 5

ON THE JUNE
RADAR:

march APRIL MAY

6 Planning at the 17 Planning at the 15 Planning at the 5 Planning at the
crossroads: Science and crossroads: Land tenure, crossroads: Social crossroads: Transport and
planning – using scientific titling and planning planning and planning planning – planning for
B advancements to make B – understanding and B – moving beyond B the future
better plans using the tools available engagement C
C C C

15 Things XYZ wish 27 PIA charity trivia night 9-11 National planning
planners knew B congress: Frontiers
of planning
B P

22 Central Queensland
Symposium

M

30 Abstracts due for Location key: P Perth
PIA state conference B Brisbane
(Gladstone, 19-21 C Your computer
C September) M Mackay

For more information on
any events, visit the PIA
website at
www.planning.org.au/
qld or www.planning.
org.au/nt

6 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

A PLANNER’S
GUIDE TO
PERTH

Written by
Brittany
Griffiths
PIA (Assoc.)

Images: Supplied

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 7

Are you thinking about attending the spectacular lighting display from the ocean, and colourful skies lit by the sun
PIA National Congress in Perth this iconic digital Perth Bell Tower. setting over the ocean.
May? If so, I’d like to tell you about Mandurah and the Swan Valley are two If you have more time, I recommend
some of the places you can experience iconic Perth destinations you can visit you take the ferry to Rottnest Island for
over here in the west. as part of the study tours on offer. The a day trip, or book to stay the night on
Perth’s CBD is entering a new phase Swan Valley is home to Perth’s best the Island. You can cycle around the
of its life; the phase of reconnection. local wineries, microbreweries and Island, laze on the beaches, snorkel in
WA planners have been instrumental specialty produce stores, so if you love the clear ocean water and interact with
in assisting the reconnection of Perth’s your wine, beer, chocolate, ice-cream the local wildlife by trying to take a
entertainment precinct, Northbridge, and food, this is a non-negotiable selfie with a Quokka.
with Perth’s CBD, as well as Perth’s CBD destination to visit. Study Tour 1 – City Finally, if you missed out on the Swan
with the Swan River waterfront. of Swan – The Good, The Bad and The Valley study tour, you can travel south
The PIA award-winning project, Ugly, will give you the opportunity to of Perth to Margaret River - home to
Elizabeth Quay, is a must-see when you explore and enjoy lunch at one of the WA’s best craft breweries, boutiques,
visit Perth. Elizabeth Quay is located best wineries in the Swan Valley. wineries, and the well-known Margaret
next to the Perth Convention and Study Tour 3 – From Canals to TODs River chocolate factory. Margaret River
Entertainment Centre, where the PIA – Land Use Innovations will give you is a beautiful spot to visit to wind down
National Congress will be held - so the opportunity to take a boat tour after the congress.
there’s no chance of missing it. The to explore the Mandurah canals and There is so much to see and do in
quay boasts a waterfront leisure and waterfront developments. Mandurah is Perth, so we encourage you to stay on
entertainment precinct, which offers WA’s largest regional city, located 72km over the weekend and check out as
places to eat and drink, as well as south of Perth, and is well known for its many places as you can. We can’t wait
significant artwork, buildings and the abundant wildlife, migratory waterbirds, to welcome you to the PIA National
Perth Bell Tower. and dolphins that frequent the Peel- Congress in Perth this year.
Along with Elizabeth Quay, the recently Harvey Estuary and surrounding canal Enjoy the congress, our city and region.
constructed Yagan Square should waterways. Mandurah is unique for Learn. Discover. Have fun.
be included on your itinerary. Yagan its relaxed coastal lifestyle and is a See you there!
Square has been designed as a place fantastic location to escape to, if you
that recognises and celebrates the have a few extra days in Perth.
state’s heritage, produce, environment Are you thinking of extending your
and culture. Yagan Square will give trip to Perth? Make sure you put these
Melbourne a run for its money with locations on your must-see list. If you’re
an abundance of shops, pop ups, staying in Perth, you should visit one
restaurants, and cafes showcasing of our most popular local beaches,
WA produce. If you decide to visit Cottesloe, where you can enjoy long
the square at night, you will enjoy the stretches of white sand, clear blue

8 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Image: NSW Government, 2017

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 9

PLANNING
PATHWAYS TO FIRE
RESILIENCE

Image: Supplied Image: Supplied

Written by Laura Gannon MPIA, between the two. Development pressure occurring in urban areas across the
Principal, Meridian Urban (left), and and subdivision practices at the interface world and identified the need for hazard
Molly Mowery, President, Wildfire are on a collision course with our changing and risk assessment to be meaningfully
Planning International (Colorado, climate. But just as ‘fighting fire with fire’ integrated into urban plans and for
United States) (right) is used to extinguish this hazard, fighting land use planning to be incorporated
land use planning with land use planning into disaster management activities.
Development pressure at the rural- is just as readily applicable as a solution. These remain the same sentiments
urban interface (known as wildland- expressed by the National Land Use
urban interface in the United States) is The recent journey Planning Guidelines for Disaster Resilient
commonly cited as a leading contributing 2017 proved to be one of the worst Communities, released by PIA in 2016.
factor in increasing bushfire loss and years on record insofar as property loss
damage across the globe. However, from disaster events across the globe, Recent media coverage across Australia
a recent post published by the Fire with estimates from reinsurers currently has largely focused on the value of
Adapted Communities Learning Network exceeding $330 billion, not to mention prescribed burning (and traditional or
posed the question of whether interface the loss of life. cultural burning practices) to avoid the
development truly is a factor, or whether devastating consequences of bushfire.
this an unsubstantiated fire narrative. Whilst much of Australia remains in the However, it is important to consider
midst of its annual disaster season, the controlled burning and fuel management
This is quite a bend on contemporary North American wildfire season broke as part of a broader range of mitigation
thinking and practice which holds fast records across western Canada and the approaches at the community level.
to the link between ‘homes among the United States:
gum trees’ and life and property loss, • Separate wildfire events in California If the situation were as easy as ’removing
particularly in Australia. The issue in either the trees, removes the risk’, that’s what
confirming or condemning such a link claimed dozens of lives, left we’d be doing. However, in many
lies in data. As is the case in the United thousands homeless, and burned locations this simply isn’t possible. In
States, bushfire property loss data has 1.2 million acres (485,600 hectares) Australia, much of our ‘bush identity’
been rather inconsistently captured over of land - which more recently led to is associated with just that – the bush,
recent decades, which makes it difficult deadly mudslides following post-fire and so we maintain a strong affinity with
to ascertain whether increasing interface rains. our natural environment. Ecological
development is causing greater life and • The province of British Columbia and biodiversity values remain critical
property loss. This is certainly a thought experienced its worst-ever wildfire considerations along with erosion, and
provoking sentiment, but the reality is season, shattering multiple records the impact of stormwater runoff.
that it is not difficult to appreciate a link for an unprecedented number of
fire starts, land burned, and wildfire And herein lies the tension between the
evacuees. creation of adapted settlements whilst
• Following prolonged drought maintaining the character, identity and
conditions, wildfires in Montana environmental values people hold near
scorched over one million acres and dear when making a choice on where
(405,000 hectares) and resulted in to live.
extended periods of smoke and
evacuations across the state. Navigating towards combined
mitigation management
The United Nations (2018) released A question frequently asked about
statements regarding the crises now

10 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

bushfire loss is the random nature of “ locations across Australia where hazard a host of resilience-building
house loss, and why one house can “mapping is in place, planning for newopportunities which exist outside of
be seemingly spared whilst others subdivision and building requirements planning but form a strong bond when
around it are burnt to the ground. for new construction are mandatory. implemented together.
The CSIRO (2014) estimates that in But, what do we do about the risk
Australia, 80-90% of house loss from profile facing existing communities? The emergence of community-level
bushfire is caused by ember attack, and community-led bushfire mitigation
with a direct correlation between the A Case Study: Community-led approaches in Australia is strong in
individual vulnerabilities of a particular planning wildfire mitigation some parts of the country, and less so in
building and the landscaping around programs in the US others. This is primarily associated with
it. This reflects the findings established Communities often lack the capacity or communities which have experienced
in particular cases across Victoria as expertise to initiate wildfire planning fire impact more recently, and thus are
part of the Victorian Bushfire Royal activities. The United States is more driven to build community-wide
Commission final report (2010). addressing this challenge through the resilience, in addition to individual or
Community Planning Assistance for household resilience.
This presents a question as to whether Wildfire (CPAW) program – a national
it is landscape or building treatment program that is administered by The role of planning at a community
which is more effective. However, this Headwaters Economics in partnership scale involves more than just a hazard
question is immaterial. Both are equally with Wildfire Planning International, map and an overlay code for new
important. We can no longer focus and funded by the USDA Forest development. It is about integrating
on one to the detriment of the other Service and other private foundations. and embedding risk-based land
(especially for existing communities), CPAW helps communities address use planning as part of the broader
and land use planning is the bridge their respective wildfire risk primarily economic, social, environmental
which links the two. through land use planning strategies. and built environment context of
our individual communities, and
The same year the Victorian Bushfire Under the program, multidisciplinary continuing to drive risk-based land use
Royal Commission report was issued, teams (planners, foresters, risk planning as a pro-active contributor in
the Four Mile Canyon fire occurred modelers, and researchers) work with the broader ecosystem of players with
in Colorado. This event occurred community planners, fire officials, a role in supporting our communities
along the Front Range of the Rocky and other stakeholders to improve to continue to thrive.
Mountains, and destroyed 162 homes. local plans, policies, and regulations.
No lives were lost, but the fire came Communities which have participated “The role of planning at a
as a significant wakeup call for local in CPAW have already taken significant
officials. A report was commissioned steps in improving their wildfire community scale involves
to assess how the fire burned, the planning efforts, including: more than just a hazard
damage it caused, and to offer insights • Spatially defining their local map and an overlay code
into how residents and fire responders
can better prepare for future events. ‘wildland-urban interface’ areas. Driving fire resilience into the future
• Assessing different levels of The case for multi-measure, multi-
Surprisingly, the report concluded that layered resilience approaches has
years of work to reduce vegetation in wildfire hazard to provide never been stronger. In conjunction
the area did not significantly prevent decision makers with accurate with multi-tiered government
structure loss. Instead, it found that and defensible hazard data. approaches, harnessing community-
a balanced approach to hazard • Updating Comprehensive Plans wide and community-led approaches
mitigation was required, including (planning schemes in Australia) is the new pathway for bushfire
home retrofits to better withstand with information on wildfire resilience planning in Australia.
flame and ember attack, as well as history, the ecological role of Similar to the concept of integrated
radiant heat exposure. The report wildfire, and goals and objectives catchment management, which draws
strengthened the case in Colorado supporting community wildfire upon a multi-disciplinary approach
for regulation and land use planning safety and risk reduction. to flood risk management, so too
processes. • Adopting local wildfire regulations must bushfire planning. The success
to address key issues including of community-level planning and
“years of work to reduce access, water supply, building mitigation programs in the United
construction, and landscaping. States, voluntarily entered into and
vegetation in the area did with a focus on leveraging cross-sector
not significantly prevent The CPAW program recognises that relationships, remains testament to the
local governments do not necessarily value and benefit of multi-objective
structure loss maintain in-house capability or resilience-based fire planning.
capacity to develop land use planning
Similarly, following the devastating strategies for wildfire risk. Different Laura and Molly will present a paper
Black Saturday fires in 2009, the planning and regulatory frameworks together at the 2018 PIA National
context of both planning and building across states also do not include Congress in Perth.
for bushfire protection has changed mandatory land use planning or
in Australia. Several versions of the building controls for wildfire hazard
building standards have come into and risk.
effect (with an updated draft version
released in late 2017), hazard mapping The CPAW program is supplemented
has evolved, and planning provisions by a host of other community-level
have improved in robustness. In most wildfire mitigation programs such as
the FireWise Communities program
administered by the National Fire
Protection Association and the Fire
Adapted Communities Learning
Network. The program considers

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 11

The social media
life of urban spaces

Written by
Anonymous planner
In a decade four or five surpassed, a man named William Whyte decreed ‘without careful
research, planning schemes shall not last’.
Stopwatches, videography and charts were friend to Whyte, but in modern planning, what
other tools can aid the fight?
Augmented reality, 3D modelling and GIS indeed, but surely there are tools friendlier to
common planner and stead?
Perhaps it’s time to embrace social media as friend, and see what assistance dear
Instagram can lend.
Selfies and cat pictures abound, but if planners look deeper, much value in hashtags can

be found.
With seventy thousand pictures posted, #ViewsofBrisbane is favourite to those with

viewscapes to be boasted.
But what untold futures await these scenes, and with expectations will such futures

contravene?
Will a medieval fortress our ‘new world city’ resemble, walled by Eagle Street giants and a

William Street high-roller ensemble?
Will concrete behemoths replace scenes of nature? Or will neighbourhood plans be our

savior?
Perhaps iconic architecture will reign supreme, enhancing the scenes so many hold in high

esteem.
A picture tells a thousand words, and with that this story ends. Or does it? The choice is for

you and your planning friends.

12 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Some cities have been careful to retain views of
surrounding ridgelines, citing mental health benefits
(such as Toronto and the North Shore Mountains). With
development exceeding 20 storeys already approved in
Milton and Auchenflower, Brisbane may not be so lucky.

When you think of iconic modern skylines, (such as New
York or Sydney), they all have one thing in common: they’re
tiered, with shorter building around the perimeter. In
Brisbane, our tallest buildings gravitate to the extremities
of the CBD, creating a skyline that lacks dimension.

Similar to scenes of nature, studies
have shown that being able to see
out and through a city can lower
stress levels and feelings of anxiety.

Original images sourced through Instagram. Augmented and published anonymously with permission.

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 13

Commonwealth
Games supercharges
Asia-Pacific’s
emerging
health and
innovation hub

Images: Supplied

14 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Written by high-tech industry development, research and according to GCHKP Project Director
Kathy Kruger,
Gold Coast Health collaboration and jobs of the future. Di Dixon, momentum is building.
& Knowledge
Precinct More than $5 billion in health, education “We have four sites that will be developed “
and transport infrastructure is being post-Games and have strong interest
The GC2018™ Athletes Village is set to leveraged in the Precinct. The Precinct is from international investors in a couple of
host 6,600 athletes and officials from 25 already home to Griffith University’s Gold other sites – development will be able to
March and throughout the 11 days of the Coast campus, the $1.76 billion Gold
Commonwealth Games (April 4-15). But Coast University Hospital, the new Gold “start from 2019,” Ms Dixon said.
it’s the legacy post-Games that is set to Coast Private Hospital, and now the $550 GCHKP will be the key
truly transform the Gold Coast. million Parklands development. GC2018 legacy project
and is crucial to the
In the city’s biggest urban renewal With two light rail stops, connected Gold Coast coming of age
project, the Parklands site (former home through to Helensvale and Brisbane
of the Gold Coast Show), will transform as well as the Southport CBD, Surfers as Australia’s fastest-
post-Games into a vibrant mixed-used Paradise and Broadbeach, easy access growing major city.
community in which to live, work and to Smith Street and the M1, and high-
learn. speed fibre optic cabling, the GCHKP - dI dixon
is a seriously connected hub. It’s the
Offering 1252 residential dwellings, street commercial connections of talented The Precinct already employs almost
level retail, 7 hectares of green space and clinicians and researchers in the Precinct 10,000 people, and boasts almost 20,000
9.5 hectares for health and innovation that are being leveraged to attract students at Griffith University, ranked in
commercial investment, the 29 hectare the right investors – leading global the top 3% of universities worldwide.
Parklands PDA sits within the 200-hectare companies and entrepreneurs who are Additionally, the Precinct hosts the
Gold Coast Health and Knowledge set to reimagine health, and transform
Precinct (GCHKP) - a unique location for design and manufacturing.

Already a quarter of available commercial
lots are earmarked for developments
worth almost $200 million post-Games,

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 15

Queensland Health Academy for attracted here, leveraging the existing innovation.”
talented high-school students. expertise of researchers and clinicians
in key areas of niche strength. Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, a strong
Existing experts include 750 health supporter of the GCKHP, calls it a
researchers across a diverse range “The key for the Precinct is to ensure “gamechanger”.
of fields at Griffith’s Menzies Health there is an R&D and commercial
Institute Queensland, and more innovation aspect to the operations “There’s no other place in Australia
than 200 at the flagship Institute for of companies we locate here, so we where you can combine the amazing
Glycomics, which currently has a can grow as a Precinct with a genuine lifestyle with both the land and the
Malaria vaccine in human clinical trials. global reputation in our areas of niche opportunity to leverage so much
strength,” said Ms Dixon. existing infrastructure and expertise,”
More than 12,500 new high-tech, high- Mayor Tate said.
value jobs will be created - some in “Griffith University has committed to
fields that don’t even exist yet. The a major development of its Advanced
Precinct will support a wider 26,000 Design and Prototyping Technologies
jobs and generate $2.9 billion for Institute (ADaPT), which is likely to
the Gold Coast economy once fully have a strong medical focus while
developed. also supporting new micro and nano
materials and advanced prototyping
Exciting opportunities will develop in across diverse industries.
high-tech fields including biomedical
engineering, biotechnology, advanced We see significant potential for the
design and manufacturing, new Precinct to develop as an Asia-Pacific
materials, artificial intelligence and health and medical conference and
cyber security. training hub, supported by the existing
large range of conference and event
A project office, funded by City of Gold facilities, including medical simulation
Coast, Griffith University and Gold training.
Coast Health, has been established
to ensure the best companies are It really is a perfect storm of

16 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Fast facts:

Total GCHKP land

200ha

Parklands PDA

29ha

Commercial development

9.5ha, 175,000 GFA, flexible lot sizes ranging up to 21,000
GFA, building heights of 8-10 storeys.

Trees planted in 7ha green spaces

135,420

Economic value

$2.9 billion GRP for Gold Coast

Jobs

12,500 new jobs, total 26,000 jobs

Investment to date

• Gold Coast University Hospital - $1.76 billion
• Parklands (G2018™ Athletes Village) - $550 million
• Griffith University Gold Coast campus - $500 million

(2006-current)
• Gold Coast Private Hospital - $232 million ($50 million

expansion opens early 2018)
• Mantra at Sharks hotel - $25 million (opens early 2018)
• Gold Coast Light Rail – Stage 1 & 2 – total $2.1 billion
• Smith Street road upgrades - $119 million

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 17

Plan your
Brisbane

Shape our city’s next
exciting chapter.

Plan your Brisbane

Brisbane is a great place to live, work and relax – Planning Brisbane’s future involves a genuine
it’s a safe, vibrant, green and prosperous city. It’s conversation about trade-offs and priorities.
no wonder our city is growing, with more people That’s why we’re making it easier to have your say,
than ever wanting to call Brisbane home. By 2041, with an online game and a series of engagement
Brisbane will need to cater for an extra 386,000 events. Together, we’ll make some important
residents. That’s more than 1300 people moving to choices about our city’s future.
Brisbane each month.

Visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘Plan your Brisbane’ to have your say and help
shape our city’s next exciting chapter.

18 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

imagine > plan > develop

For decades, the Environment and Planning team at Allens has
supported its clients to develop iconic retail, commercial, residential,

infrastructure and resource projects throughout Queensland.
Our team can partner with you to provide clear guidance

and minimise risk through all stages of the development cycle.

Visit www.allens.com.au

Contact us Rosanne Meurling Julieane Bull David Thorpe

Bill McCredie Special Counsel Senior Associate Associate
Partner
T +61 7 3334 3049 T +61 7 3334 3517 T +61 7 3334 3371 T +61 7 3334 3480
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.
16516D

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 19

Image: Supplied

The importance of with high expectations about what I might
learn and see. Now did the conference
firmly putting your and Barcelona live up to its expectations?
Absolutely, but that is a topic for another
foot forward article, another day.

– lessons from Barcelona For me, it was the unexpected things that
I saw and heard in Barcelona that were the
Written by as a core part of our future cities, to make highlight and what I thought I might share
Chris Isles MPIA, them better places for us to live. with you all, as I think it fits the overall
Executive Director ‘evolve’ theme of this edition. For me,
Planning, Place So, it was with much anticipation that late one of those unexpected lessons was the
Design Group last year I was finally able to get myself to importance of ‘mindset and aspiration’
the self-proclaimed Nirvana of the Smart when it comes to the future of our cities,
City movement - Barcelona. and specifically a view to not just maintain
our cities, but to transform them.
For the readers that know me, you You might ask, “why Barcelona?” Well,
know I’ve been following and preaching for the Smart City kind of people, this We were lucky enough to meet and hear
from the smart city and data bible for a is the ‘origin’ of much of the Smart City from the City Transformation Agency -
few years now. I have, and continue to organism that’s growing and expanding Barcelona. The Barcelona what? Yep
believe that it’s essential that ‘city types’ globally. Barcelona is the place that has you read right, an agency tasked with
(however you personally identify yourself; led the way, both in talking about it and transforming their city. Now, it’s hard to
a planner, urban designer, architect, then in doing it. be confused about what their mission and
engineer, landscape architect etc.) learn objective is, isn’t it? This organisation is
to adopt and use data and smart city But beyond that, Barcelona was hosting led by Antoni Vives - the ex-Deputy Mayor
technology, principles and opportunities another edition of the World Smart City of Barcelona and the man responsible
Expo. The Expo is the biggest and best for the Smart City and urban innovation
exhibit (and talk-fest) globally on this strategies that have made the city what it
‘smart city thing’, bar none. So, I came is today. So, the opportunity to hear and
see what they’re doing was inspirational.

So how about it? Can you imagine a
City Transformation Agency in any of our
major cities or local governments? It was
clear that this is so much more than just a
planning agency by another name, but a
group truly exploring what, when and how
to transform our cities, by leveraging and
adopting emerging technology, transit,
housing and forms of development.

What they’ve been able to achieve through
applying a transformational mindset,

20 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Image: Supplied

has been to pursue a singular goal of “ transformative potential of technology, predict where technology and innovation
transforming a city. Having to balance smart city solutions and true forward will be in 5 years, let alone 25 years. But
politics of change are not a problem thinking. This was critically deployed if we had a transformation department,
for them, as they are unapologetically by working with other departments then it would be their job to continually
forward looking. I love it! and agencies in the city to ‘infect’ a look forward, ensuring that we have city
transformational culture. I love this transformation nailed.
“THIS IS SO MUCH MORE THAN approach to silo breaking and perhaps
having this group as a neutral group (yet In summary, I think it is going to be tough
JUST A PLANNING AGENCY BY unrelenting in their forward visioning), for us to put one foot forward to the future,
ANOTHER NAME to smash silos and siloed thinking, is the whilst also keeping one firmly planted in
reason Barcelona has achieved so much, the now. I would encourage councils to
The reason I think a transformation agency as opposed to just hoping the silos will consider adding a transformation team,
is needed, is because for a while I have magically merge without someone in the or at least adopting a long-term view
felt that much of what I see hasn’t been middle. framed around shorter term inevitable
about ‘aspirations and transformation’, disruptions.
or truly forward and innovative thinking, Some say it’s reckless to plan more than
but rather strategies of minimalism. By 5 years ahead, as the pace of change
minimalism, I mean what is the least is now so fast that we can’t adequately
I can do to appear future-thinking,
without upsetting the existing residents
and communities, so that we can get it
through.

Now, I’m not trying to be overtly critical
here, as I understand the politics and
community expectations surrounding
this. But, if we think for a second about
the pace of change in our cities and in
technology, and the likely disruption
heading our way thanks to automation
and the myriad of other mega trends,
I can’t help to think that we might get
caught out by taking a minimalistic
approach, which doesn’t look far enough
ahead to long-term benefit.

So, in terms of lessons from Barcelona, Images: Supplied
at a city level, this agency has been a
hit squad of people skilled up in the

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 21

PIA Launches Women in
Planning Network

Written by the Queensland Women in Planning Network Committee

Queensland PIA has launched a statewide • Identifying the specific issues facing “ specific needs of women and children.
program to inspire and support women in women who work in planning. “In the wake of the global #metoo
planning, and to advocate for creating movement that has highlighted the
cities and regions that are designed to be • A recognition and encouragement discrimination and violence that too
safer and fairer for women. program for women in planning. often targets women, it’s critical that the
planning profession look at how we can
The Minister for State Development, • A digital and social media campaign make our centres and neighbourhoods
Manufacturing, Infrastructure and to promote the work of women safer and more equitable for women,”
Planning Hon Cameron Dick formally in planning, using the hashtag she said.
launched the Queensland Women in #womenwhoplantheworld.
Planning Network at the inaugural annual “We can plan neighbourhoods that
Women in Planning Network Breakfast At the launch of the Women in Planning are safer, that make it easier for parents
on 27 February, featuring Her Honour program, Janet Marshall from DSDMIP to access employment and child care,
Judge Nicole Kefford, and President was awarded a Fellowship of PIA. and that provide the services and
of the Commonwealth Association of Attendees were encouraged to be facilities which allow women to reach
Planners and Chief Planner at Brisbane proactive in nominating other female PIA their potential. We need to be thinking
City Council, Dyan Currie. members for a fellowship. about how and where public transport
is provided, integrating transport with
Queensland PIA has also established “Inspiring Women is about more than just employment, education and sporting
its first Women in Planning (WiP) inspiring women to enter the planning facilities, ensuring a range of affordable
Network Committee, comprising some profession. It is also about celebrating housing to support the life stages of all
of Queensland’s leading planners, who the amazing contribution already being women, and more.”
will oversee the year-long program, made by women who help plan the cities
celebrating and advocating for women and regions we live in,” said WiP Chair, More specifically to women planners,
both working in and benefitting from Ms Roughan said it was important to
planning in Queensland. “Jenny Roughan. look at ways to support women through
For a long time, female their careers in planning. “We know that
The inaugural WiP Network Committee planners have been at the women comprise half of all graduate
comprises Jenny Roughan (Ethos heart of designing the planners, yet only occupy a small
Urban) as Chair, Nicole Bennetts (Gold way we live by planning percentage of management positions,
Coast City Council), Kerry Riethmuller our neighbourhoods, our similiar to other industries,” she said.
(DSDMIP), Sandy Vigar (consultant) cities and our regions. But
Mary Mealey (consultant), Jess Crane for far too long, their “We need to understand why women
(Brisbane City Council), Stephanie Wyeth fingerprints have been don’t advance in organisations at the
(Urbis), Julie Brook (Mackay City Council), largely invisible. same rate as their male counterparts.
Rosanne Meurling (Allens), Kirsty Kelly Are there obstacles stopping women
(KK Consulting) and Amanda Newbery “We’re committed to telling the stories getting into management streams? And
(Articulous Communications) and sharing the successes of our female if so, how can we overcome them? These
planners. And that started with our launch are the sorts of things we’ll be trying to
Excited and energetic, the WiP breakfast on 27 February.” understand through our research.”
Committee has big plans for the year
including: Ms Roughan said the WiP Network Whatever your gender, if you’d like to
• The February launch breakfast, to Committee was also passionate about help, we’d love to hear from you. There
advocating for the planning and design of are many ways you can help, including
kick-off discussion and begin to cities and regions in ways that address the becoming an event supporter, helping
celebrate the achievements and with research, or helping to gather and
insights from some of our highest tell the stories of women. Membership is
achievers. open to all PIA members in Queensland.
• A new “Inspiring Women” series To join the WiP Network Committee,
which will include video and print contact Melanie Adam in the Queensland
interviews, seminars and activities PIA Office, at melanie.adam@planning.
to understand the careers of female org.au.
planners, and to dispel myths about
women in planning.

22 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Images: PIA

The Women in Planning breakfast was proudly sponsored by the Queensland
Government, DSDMIP, Ethos Urban and JPL Media.

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 23

More Power
to you

Why I don’t mind if it is
solar, wind, coal or
nuclear.

Image: Supplied

24 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Written by
Nikki Huddy RPIA,
Planz Town Planning

I remember when our family got our first have changed the energy landscape. production is efficient - did you know
VCR and microwave in the mid 1980s. as much as 48% of our electricity is lost
Back then, the average Australian As it turns out, that seems to be the in transmission from the Stanwell coal
household had 3 electric appliances. case for Far North Queensland. In plant near Rockhampton?
Now, the average home has over 25 October one of the region’s first solar
appliances, which when combined, farms, in Lakeland, produced its first As our region increasingly produces its
use as much electricity as heating or megawatt of power - just two and a own electricity, much less energy is lost
cooling. No wonder we’re all talking half years after the planning application in transition and it is time to be asking
about the price of electricity and why to Cook Shire Council. The wind farm for these savings to be passed on to
our politicians have so much to say on at Walkamin had its first tower erected us. There are also opportunities for
the topic. in November, and will be operating the local electricity to be sold at lower
by October 2018 - just 6 years after rates to big users such as councils (think
Last month I was lucky enough to hear the application to Council. These street lights), and there is the very real
Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Alan timeframes for delivery of clean energy potential to attract new industries (e.g.
Finkel explain why coal and nuclear are puts into context the challenges of a a plastic recycling factory) with cheaper
simply not likely to stack up. The short new coal fired electricity plant. electricity.
answer is approval and construction
times. The approval and construction The Walkamin windfarm can provide I think it is time to move the debate
of a coal fired plant is likely to take at power to over 75,000 homes, and from Adani and coal and to be asking
least 10 years to produce electricity. Lakeland has a similar production more from our government in terms
In which time, a range of alternative potential in solar. The wind, solar and of better pricing for locally produced
energy sources including improved hydro power we have locally gives power.
battery storage, solar and wind will us resilience, and local electricity

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the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 25

Monitoring Growth
in the South East
Corner

Images: Supplied Image: Supplied

Written by Kerry Doss RPIA
(Fellow),
Deputy Director General,
Planning Group,
Department of State
Development, Manufacturing,
Infrastructure and Planning
(DSDMIP)

The Queensland Government’s recently up of the population. managing $5 million over two years to “
delivered South East Queensland To apply the lessons we have learnt during establish this new program. The GMP
Regional Plan 2017 – ShapingSEQ, previous iterations of the South East will allow monitoring of land supply
provides a proactive framework for Queensland Regional Plan, ShapingSEQ and development issues in SEQ, in
managing growth in SEQ, ensuring better is supported by a comprehensive delivery consultation with local government, utility
outcomes for built environments than if framework that makes sure we continue providers and industry experts.
the growth had occurred organically. to improve and lead regional planning
practice in Australia. Commitment to this program is essential
ShapingSEQ. focuses on maximising the so the Queensland Government can
opportunities that come with growth and Whilst this may sound good - in practice recognise and respond to supply issues
prosperity, while protecting the natural what does it really mean? to ensure land supply constraints does
values we cherish and the quality of life not put upward pressure on housing
we enjoy here in Queensland. ShapingSEQ outlines a significant affordability in the south east corner.
implementation program which includes a
Underpinning the development of the range of projects critical to the delivery of “ Commitment to this
plan is the simple but crucial question – the plan’s policy intent. These range from program is essential
where are we going? site-specific master planning exercises so the Queensland
to a region-wide strategic assessment Government can
ShapingSEQ identifies key growth areas under the Environment Protection and recognise and respond
for Queensland over the next 25 years. Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. A to supply issues
• Expected population by 2041 – 5.3 specialist team has been established in
DSDMIP to deliver this significant body The GMP is being developed with a five-
million (growth of nearly 2 million). of work.
• Expected jobs by 2041 – 2.6 million
Arguably, the most important of
(growth of nearly 1 million). the implementation actions is the
• Expected dwelling growth from 2016 establishment of the South East
Queensland Growth Monitoring Program
to 2041 – 794,000. (GMP).
• Accommodating dwellings as 60 per
The department has been tasked with
cent consolidation vs 40 per cent
expansion.
• Increasing housing diversity and
choice to meet the changing make

26 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

year outlook to full implementation. and provide advice on potential the next five years to make sure we are
The core value of monitoring is that it policy and planning responses. growing in line with the employment
provides an improved evidence base baselines anticipated through
for regional planning and decision Over time, a body of knowledge will ShapingSEQ.
making over time and at a scale that be established and made publicly
is not limited to administrative and available to enable improved Ultimately, the GMP will position
statistical boundaries. To date much, engagement and education for both ShapingSEQ with nation-leading
if not all, of our research and data is the community and decision makers on capability for monitoring growth and
limited to a single point in time and key issues for South East Queensland. development and will better support
are at scales that don’t allow the Inherent to this approach is a evidence based planning.
regional impacts and benefits to be commitment to ensure the plan builds
considered. The GMP and its outputs capability to respond to issues and the
will address these limitations. megatrends as they play out for South
East Queensland.
In this regard, the GMP will provide a
key information resource leading into In the short term, the
future reviews of ShapingSEQ and department is focused
other government planning initiatives. on ensuring the GMP
The GMP is being structured and can provide data on our
resourced to deliver three core ability to accommodate
functions: our Dwelling Supply
• Land Supply and Development Benchmarks as well as
making sure development
Monitoring which will draw upon is occurring in locations
a single source of truth for land that are supported by
supply and development activity public transport. It will
for all of South East Queensland. also examine ‘Affordable
• Measures that Matter to Living’ and determine
monitor key indicators which if communities are on
are illustrative and informative track with initiatives that
regarding progress of South East support this goal, or if we
Queensland as we plan for and are seeing more ‘Missing
accommodate growth. Middle’ housing being
• Housing Supply Expert Panel developed. Finally, the
which is an independent panel of GMP will look at where
18 industry and academic experts and in what industries jobs
who will undertake peer review of growth is occurring over
the GMP analysis and reporting

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 27

postcard FROM...

San Francisco

Images: Supplied

28 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

Written by
Christopher Austin BUD(URP) MPIA

In November last year, my wife, Danae, local governments in Queensland. San notification. This includes:
and I embarked on a 3-week journey Francisco is its own county, and there are • Letters sent to all property owners
travelling around North America, visiting a further 57 counties in California.
New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San The San Francisco Planning Code (SFPC) within 150 feet (46 metres) of the
Francisco and Yosemite National Park. is the key local planning instrument subject site.
It’s important to point out that we’re both to guide development and is similar • Placing a sign on the site in a particular
planners and have a passion for travelling to a local planning scheme. It consists form (the signage provided on-site is
to cities and examining the complex of zones, constraint mapping and far more prescriptive in terms of the
fabric that pulls them together. And food neighbourhood plans that sit over key proposed development).
– we both really love food. areas of San Francisco. Critically, the The Neighbourhood Notification process
Whilst in the Mission District of San permitted uses are outlined for the lasts 30 days in total.
Francisco, we stumbled upon a ‘Notice zones/neighbourhood plans, and when For a building permit, a discretionary
for Building Permit Application’ sign on a applications require “Neighbourhood review of the application can be requested
building. Boba Guys, the bubble tea shop Notification” or public notification as we by a member of the public during the
we just stopped at (check them out), was know it. notification period. This requires the San
extending to the space next door, which There are two instances of Neighbourhood Francisco Planning Commission to review
involved a change in use and building Notification that we observed, and the the application.
work. I’m a DA planner at heart, so found most common, are: The commission, which is made of seven
this fascinating, snapped a picture and 1. Building permits for building elected officials, has discretion over
kept moving. applications and can request changes
A short stroll away we came across extensions, particular types of uses, to applications as part of a discretionary
another sign advising of a ‘Notice of a demolitions and formula retail review process to meet appropriate
Public Hearing for a Conditional Use uses (eg. chains or franchises) that codes or address community concerns. If
Authorisation for a Seven (7) Storey are located in particular zones, satisfied, the application is approved. A
Residential/Mixed Use Building’. This neighbourhood plans or historic public hearing process is not incorporated
sign advised that members of the public areas. into the discretionary review process.
could request to review plans and even 2. Higher order ‘Conditional Use A ‘Conditional Use Authorisation’
participate as part of a public hearing Authorisation’ applications, which application has a mandatory public
convened by the San Francisco Planning have a mandatory neighbourhood hearing component, in favour of the
Commission. My interest had peaked – notification requirements, including discretionary review. A public hearing
people could make a pitch for or against a public hearing component as part is hosted by the planning commission,
an application to a commission? It of the process. which meets monthly, with all relevant
sounded like an episode of Judge Judy, The actual notification process is applications placed on an agenda and
but with planning. Later that night, I also similar to the public notification presented. As part of this, members of
began to research how it all worked. requirements under the Planning Act the public make verbal representations in
Naturally, we need to set the scene slightly. 2016, with a few key differences. favour of placing them in writing.
The planning system in San Francisco is When an application is submitted, it’s The SFPD has its own YouTube channel,
very similar to the Queensland planning reviewed by the San Francisco Planning which includes a video detailing how
system. The country itself is broken into Department (SFPD), and neighbourhood public hearings work. A respondent
states, being California in this instance, notification may be required under the must physically attend the public
and from there it’s further broken into SFPC. If notification is required, a planner hearing before the planning commission,
counties which act in a similar way to from the SFPD will conduct all actions for

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 29

nominate themselves on the agenda, “Projects can live and die “ stakeholders to engage/observe
and are called when the public may dependent on the public via live streaming. In a Queensland
make comment. This is typically after a and political will, so the context this tool has potential to
SFPD representative has described the mechanism to consult the make public notification more
proposal, and made a recommendation engaging and relevant. Though it
on approval with conditions or refusal. broader community is is acknowledged that many local
This is the most interesting part of important. governments, including Brisbane
the process! Respondents put their and Logan City Council, have several
case forward and the field is diverse – The key differences and potential instructional videos around planning
applicants presenting their case at a opportunities of the neighbourhood and public works programs, which is
technical level, local business owners/ notification process, comparative to the a great start.
operators venting their spleens about Planning Act 2016 are: It’s funny that a simple sign on a window
regulations, local residents supporting • The public forum in which objections and a fence led to this – though it
a proposed business or demanding that reinforces that you can engage with
development be refused. or support are verbally offered to the planning if you really want to. But making
What’s better is that prior public hearing ultimate discretionary authority (the it more accessible and transparent
videos are available on YouTube and are planning commission). The public should always be a goal. If you have a
also livestreamed, allowing the community hearing approach is arguably more slow Saturday night, check out the SFPD
to watch from anywhere. It’s a great use of accessible, and doesn’t necessarily YouTube channel and some prior public
a widely popular digital media platform, require planning based grounds. hearings – it’s good fun. And if you get
which also has transferability to social • Public representations, either by the opportunity to visit San Francisco,
media such as Facebook and Twitter. discretionary review process or do it! And bring me back some In-N-Out
From the public hearing the application is public hearing, were made directly Burger please.
either approved or refused. The planning to the planning commission, which
commission has absolute discretion to can overrule the SFPD. This appears
refuse or apply conditions of approval on to be a “check” on the application
the basis of concerns raised at the public process, and gives slightly more
hearing in real time, so the process has confidence on the public’s concerns
weight to the approval process. being heard.
Whilst public notification and community • The use of digital media was a great
consultation may not be the “sexiest” way to improve awareness around
part of the development process, it’s development. It gave a platform for
arguably the most important. Projects can
live and die dependent on the public and
political will, so the mechanism to consult
the broader community is important.

30 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

PALBAONUINTTI’TNSHGTEIME TO PLAN YOUR
INSTITUPTELAONF NING CAREER!

AUSTRALIA

RegiBsteerecdoPlmanneersaarRe reecgoginsitseedred Planner to

by the Planning Institute of Australia.

This o•ffiScieaclubroedbyeptrtoervirdoeless and projects

educa•tioBne, pcoamrtmofuanipcraotifoenssaionndal and respected community
pcrreoafete•ssbiyRoeoenttucaeerlridkvcenoevomoewnlmolgepuodmnignietegineatscn.otodmhsmkeilulplns ication and education, to help you develop

HOW TO GET• Get opportunities to participate in policy development, lobbying and
STARTED
advocacy activities

To find out more about the benefits of
choosing – or becoming – a Registered
Planner, simply go to planning.org.au.

Registered Planners are recognised
by the Planning Institute of Australia.

To find out more about the benefits of
choosing - or becoming - a Registered
Planner, simply go to planning.org.au.

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 31

Q&a WITH
thomas
gardiner

Images: Supplied

How do you describe your job to people outside of the profession?
Friend: “So what on earth is town planning?”
Thomas: “Have you ever played ‘Settlers of Catan’? It’s like that but far more ferocious and there’s
more at stake than brick, lumber, wool, grain and ore!”

What do you enjoy about planning?

Thomas is pia’s The facilitation. The sense of turning visions and dreams into reality are what make the profession
Queensland Young special. At a regional level, it’s very rewarding to help facilitate the aspirations of individuals, community
Planner of the organisations and townships, no matter how small, how simple, or abstract their dreams are.
Year
What opportunities does being ‘Young Planner of the Year’ bring?

For me, receiving the award was a formal recognition from the institute that young planners can
achieve the “remarkable” in their careers by working in Australia’s rural and regional areas. So as
an opportunity, it has provided me with the impetus to keep spreading the word to our younger
cohort about the opportunities that rural and regional employment can provide, which in turn, has a
positive flow-on effect for the growth and prosperity of these areas.

How have you found your perceptions of planning change from the beginning of university, to
graduation and working?

Drastically. We’re in a profession that is much more than just scribbling or articulating ideas on paper,
which I have no doubt was the first perceptions that most of us had the first time we entered the
planning sphere. The drastic change for me came through the realisation that planning is about the
relationships you make, the people you meet, and the communities which we shape and become
absorbed in.

Which of your accomplishments are you proudest of?

I think my biggest accomplishment has been through my advocacy in promoting career opportunities
for young planners in the regions – where I’ve been banging on about “grabbing the bull by the
horns”. It’s very rewarding to hear that other young professionals are now seriously considering the
prospect of making the tree-change to the regions and seeing it as a legitimate environment for career
progression. I take these stories as a massive personal reward.

32 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

What positive professional experiences have you gained from working in a regional area? “ planning is
If there is one standout, it would have to be a greater appreciation for planning at a grassroots level and how very much
even the smallest decision-making outcome can be a catalyst for something wonderful. Particularly where about the
we deal with remote, outlying communities who struggle due to environmental conditions and economic relationships
challenges which are out of our control. At a regional level we very much get our hands dirty (in a good
way) supporting our community, which helps to facilitate strong rapport, which you can’t buy in major urban you make, the
centres. people you

What challenges have you experienced working in a regional area? meet, and the
There are a few, but most prominently would be the minimal awareness amongst our community of what communities
planners do, as they may not have been otherwise exposed to planning. Notwithstanding, it is a profession
which is slowly starting to gain some traction which is noticeable as we get less and less enquiries about which we
“rezoning” applications, and more queries about MCU’s, ROL’s and other fancy applications! shape and

What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed, between being a planner in Brisbane, to being a become
planner in Rockhampton? absorbed in

Besides going from assessing applications for apartments to rodeo arenas? Perhaps the level of interaction
that we have with applicants and community members, particularly those face-to-face conversations, where we
develop a visibly strong rapport. For me, working on the ground floor of a reconverted wool shed in the heart
of Rocky, I feel I developed stronger, professional relationships with our clientele than I ever did working in a
fifty-storey skyscraper in the centre of Brisbane.

What myths about planning in regional Queensland would you like to prove wrong? “

That we’re a small town and that this must equate to work being quiet – this one irks me! Yes, we receive far
fewer development applications in a calendar year than our larger urban counterparts, but you must remember
a couple of things. In Rockhampton, we live in a region with a population of 80,000+ residents that covers an
area of 6,500 square kilometres, with a very small team of planners - six to be precise. Think about this for a
second – I don’t think you can fathom that we’re ever quiet, can you?

the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1 33

Younger generations are often characterised as needing instant gratification. How do you “never be
think this affects young planners, considering the time taken to realise planning outcomes?
afraid to
I don’t want to pigeon-hole all young planners and say that we want decisions to happen quickly and that we’re mix it up
impatient, but in saying this, our cohort certainly needs to recognise that patience is a virtue in this profession. and try
Good planning outcomes do take time, and in this regard we need to respect the processes and frameworks something
in place and remind ourselves to reflect on the journey to reach an outcome, rather than skipping ahead, as different
this is where we truly facilitate good decision-making – I think this is an important lesson for all young planners.

What do you think are the biggest issues that planners of your generation will face?

There are a plethora of challenges. From a rural and regional perspective, the way our generation adapts to
change will be critical, particularly as many regional areas are in decline as a consequence of various social,
economic and technological circumstances. The challenge will be how our young cohort stands up and rallies
in an effort to reduce the disparities between regional and urban areas in the face of change.

If you could send one message to the planners of Australia, what would it be? “

Probably something that I tell myself everyday. That is; not to be afraid to try something different with your
careers or challenge the norms. We are very fortunate to be a part of a profession which affords us so much
diversity and opportunity. So to all of you, whether it’s packing your bag and hitting the road to Central
Queensland, or advocating for some quirky or whizz-bang idea, never be afraid to mix it up and try something
different in the planning profession. In fact, it’s something that should be strongly encouraged.

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34 the agenda - autumn 2018 - VOL. 58 NO. 1

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Cliff Wirz LLB MURP MDIA If you get stuck
just call us
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