The territory's top engineers and engineering projects have been celebrated at the 2023 Engineers Australia Excellence Awards - People & Projects ACT, held at the National Museum last night.
"The Engineers Australia Excellence Awards not only spotlight the peak of engineering innovation but also underscore the vital contributions engineers make to our community," said Engineers Australia GM, ACT Caitlin Buttress.
"As we celebrate these trailblazers, we also empower them to be the voice for our profession and inspire the next generation of engineering talent."
ACT Project of the Year
Australian National University Research School of Physics by TTW (ACT) Pty Ltd In the ANU's Research School of Physics, TTW (ACT) Pty LTD has built a pioneering facility that sets unprecedented standards in Australia. Aiming to be among the world's top 20 institutions, this project boasts clean rooms, advanced vibration controls, and isolation features, propelling research in quantum physics, photonics, and nanotechnology. Remarkably, it meets the challenging VC-F vibration standard—a first for a suspended slab in the country. Beyond its research capabilities, the building is architecturally striking, maximizing natural light, offering stunning views, and upholding high environmental standards.
ACT Professional Engineer of the Year
Lee Walsh
Lee Walsh is a distinguished engineer, evident from his contributions to enhancing Formula One performances to ensuring the reliability and cybersecurity of medical equipment. He's actively involved in community services like the SES, promotes STEM education among schoolchildren, and represents Australia on global committees. Walsh champions workforce diversity and leverages his vast engineering knowledge in both the medical and sports domains. He initiated the testing of medical equipment by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, influencing even the US Federal Drugs Administration. As a recognised figure in standards committees worldwide and a frequent international speaker, Walsh's persistent drive to integrate advanced engineering in medicine and sports promises continued benefits for both engineers and the broader society.
ACT Emerging Professional Engineer of the Year Alastair Cossart Alastair Cossart is a dedicated engineer with a keen emphasis on sustainability and quality. Witnessing the tragic aftermath of flawed design in New Zealand, Cossart realised the profound responsibility engineers bear, shaping his career around safety and professional integrity. In the UK, he was entrusted with the design of six towers of Barcelona's La Sagrada Familia. In Australia, spanning QLD, the ACT, and NSW, he's managed billion-dollar projects and is recognised as a trusted design advisor. Cossart actively supports community initiatives of Engineers Australia and the Property Council, championing engineering education for young students, especially girls.
The Engineers Australia Excellence Awards seeks to recognise and reward outstanding achievement in engineering. Local winners will represent their division at the national awards in Melbourne on November 29.
