IPSWICH City Council has been nationally recognised for its bold approach to managing the city’s growth, earning the prestigious Australian Institute of Architects President’s Medal for appointing its first City Architect.
Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic said the 2024 appointment of Mark Tendys was a “city-shaping decision” that balances Ipswich’s rapid growth with its proud heritage.
“This award recognises Ipswich as a growth council with a proud connection to internationally renowned heritage,” Deputy Mayor Jonic said. “Our city is known for its beautiful Queenslanders, iconic civic buildings, and well-designed public spaces.
“More people are choosing to live, work, and play here, and over the next 20 years we will need 100,000 new homes. The City Architect helps ensure that growth is managed without losing our local character.”
Bringing more than 25 years of experience in private practice, Mr Tendys was formerly Principal Architect at James Cubitt Architects and has long been a member of the National Trust.
Now part of council’s City Design Team, he leads Ipswich’s architectural and heritage strategy.
“Mark’s role is critical in preserving our built heritage while shaping a sustainable future,” Deputy Mayor Jonic said. “The City Architect is our design champion, blending old and new. Over time, we hope to expand the role with supporting positions in urban design, heritage architecture, and placemaking.”
Councillor Andrew Antoniolli, Chair of the Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee, said the role was central to the new Ipswich Heritage Plan 2025–2029, only the second council-led heritage plan in Queensland.
“This five-year plan sets a clear strategy for proactive heritage management and greater protection of significant sites,” Cr Antoniolli said. “Combined with the Ipswich City Plan 2025, which replaces a two-decade-old planning scheme, the city is building up, not out, delivering homes in areas supported by transport and services while protecting our way of life.”
Australian Institute of Architects Queensland President Caroline Stalker praised Ipswich’s approach.
“Creating thriving communities isn’t just about planning — it’s a design challenge,” Ms Stalker said. “By putting a City Architect at the decision-making table, Ipswich is leading the way in Queensland, ensuring growth, revitalisation, and heritage preservation are considered holistically.”
