AJC Joins Industry Leaders at WAF Pre-Presentation Night

Sydney, Australia – Thursday, 14 August 2024 

The special evening brought together a dynamic line-up of presenters and a distinguished judging panel, creating a collaborative platform for sharing ideas, testing concepts, and receiving invaluable critique. 

Speakers included: 

• Mark Raggatt, ARM Architecture – Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub & Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence 

• David Welsh & Chris Major, Welsh + Major – Pyrmont Community Centre, Sydney 

• Lisa-Maree Carrigan, Group GSA – Rosebery Engine Yards 

• Dua Green, AJC Architects – Reddam House North Shore 

Judging panel: 

• Lisa-Maree Carrigan, Director, GroupGSA 

• Michael Heenan, Design Lead and Chair of the Board, AJC 

• Paul Reidy, Partner, fitzpatrick+partners 

• Ian Moore, Principal, Ian Moore Architects 

The event was joined online by Paul Finch, Programme Director of WAF, who praised the initiative and the calibre of Australian entries. 

“Australia consistently punches above its weight at WAF, with projects that are both ambitious and inventive. It’s wonderful to see initiatives like this event, where peers support one another to present their work at the highest level on the international stage,” said Finch. 

Michael Heenan, AJC Design Lead and Chair of the Board, highlighted the value of the evening for local architects: 

“This night is about more than rehearsing presentations—it’s about building confidence, testing ideas, and learning from each other. It shows the strength of our design community and the generosity that exists in sharing knowledge to help Australian projects shine globally,” Heenan said. 

Following each presentation, the judges offered constructive feedback, encouraging professional growth and helping presenters sharpen their storytelling for the global stage. The evening concluded with an open feedback session, where both judges and audience members shared insights and reflections. 

About the Event
Proudly supported by SMEG, AJC’s WAF Pre-Presentation Night has become a hallmark occasion in Australia’s architectural calendar. More than just a rehearsal, it reinforces AJC’s ongoing commitment to celebrating creativity, nurturing talent, and ensuring Australian projects stand out on the international stage. As a multi-time WAF winner, AJC continues to lead in supporting the architectural community to excel at the world’s largest festival of architecture.