Thank you to everyone who joined
us for the 2021 IPWEAQ President’s Breakfast in person at Victoria Park and via
satellite. This time last year we had no idea what was just around the corner
but maybe that rainy day in Brisbane was a sign. This year, the sun was out and
we made the most of the beautiful weather. We also made the most of the
opportunity to catch-up with colleagues – something we no longer take for
granted – and to thank our Partners for their support for IPWEAQ last year
particularly.
We were delighted to have
IPWEAQ’s 7th President, Gil Holmes (1984-1986) with us for breakfast
to receive a gift to celebrate his contributions to the Institute as President
and during those formative years. The Holmes training room at IPWEAQ’s new
facilities in Eagle Farm has been named in Gil’s honour.
We also celebrated the
contributions of another IPWEAQ Past President, Peter Way. Peter was our 12th
President (1993-1995). He is an Emeritus member – our highest honour – and has
been instrumental in IPWEA’s global standing on asset management. Peter was
featured in the June 2020 issue of Engineering for Public Works.
While each of the IPWEA Divisions
are independent separate legal entities which form part of a federated
structure, we do recognise the transfer of members across borders and we were
delighted to recognise Phil Hawley who has been a member for 50 years. Phil was
a member of the Institute of Municipal Engineering Australia NSW Board when it
resolved to join the IPWEA Group.
Last month, I was pleased to
attend the SEQ Branch conference in Caloundra. The program was varied and
relevant but like many others, the highlight of the event was the conference
dinner at the Queensland Air Museum. An auction for Rural Aid, the President’s
Charity, raised $1,200
with Phil Evans from Saferoads taking home the flight simulator experience for
three people, the beneficiaries being Phil’s three children. Congratulations
gain, Phil!
I am delighted to announce that
Seren McKenzie has been awarded Emeritus membership, the first female member to
receive the highest award that can be bestowed on any member. A recipient must
have served Queensland communities for at least 20 years and made a major
contribution to the Institute. As our first female President and one of our
longest standing Board members (possibly the longest), this recognition is well
earned and we congratulate Seren for once again etching her name into the
history books.
A reminder that
applications for Fellow membership will close 1 April. I encourage all eligible
Members: minimum five years membership, active involvement in IPWEAQ activities
eg on Working Groups, contributions to the sector and to the advancement of our
Body of Knowledge, apply online.
IPWEAQ Working Groups offer valuable opportunities for you
to contribute your experience and knowledge in technical areas to the
development of technical solutions that advance our sector. I encourage you to
get involved particularly if you see a need in the industry that requires a
solution. Contact Craig Moss to discuss further.
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