CONNECTIONS

The magazine of the National Young Planners April 2011

CREATIVE DESTRUCTION The re-birth of cool

from the//-
designer
THE ROMAN POET Ovid once wrote “Most
beings spring from other individuals; but there is a
certain kind which reproduces itself. The Assyrians
call it the Phoenix”.
The Phoenix has long been presented as a symbol
of rebirth, immortality, and renewal, this edition of
Connections not only examines renewal of cities,
but represents a renewal of the magazine itself.
Connections is the culmination of work from each
of the States and Territories and it brings me great
pleasure to introduce the revamped version of the
magazine. Connections will inform planners nation
wide on state related projects or issues and provide
a forum for young planners to express themselves.
The eMag will also advertise upcoming events and
review previous events held.
This issue of Connections will examine the concept
of creative destruction and its application to
Australian and International cities. From natural
disaters to new economies, cities must constantly
adapt in order to stay afloat.
If you would like to join the pages of the prestigious
Connections in August feel free to get in contact
with the NYPG via email - nypg@planning.org.au or
through facebook, twitter, carrier pidgeon.
Thanks to everyone who helped write the articles!
Alex Frankcombe
Connections Convenor
connections planning site of the day
help make
our next
magazine
IN THE SPIRIT OF CREATIVE DESTRUCTION, we wish to
give rebirth to the magazine by renaming it to incorporate
the increased input from the States and Territories. We’ve
started brainstorming ideas for the title of the magazine
and now we’re asking for your help.
Here’s some our literary genius’ have come up with:
• Plannersphere
• Plantastic
• iPlan
• Planny McPlanplan
So, yeah, we’ve got lots of ideas, but we want more. Help
us reinvent Connections into something bigger and better.
Also, we’d like to know about your thoughts on the
magazine. What would you like to know? Or what do you
have to share? What cool new innovative projects policies
are on your radar, international and locally?
New planning theories which are changing the way we
plan leapfrogging right over traditional planning concepts.
Let us know in the comments via email - nypg@planning.
org.au or through facebook. The most creative idea wins
a prize!
Walk Score
www.walkscore.com
Walk Score is a cool little gadget which
calculates the walkability of an address by
locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools,
parks based on Google Maps. Walk Score
measures how easy it is to live a car-lite
lifestyle.
So how far to the nearest night spot?
words
from the
national
convenor
Hello all and a very belated Happy 2011! I hope that
you’re all rested, recovered and have already hit
your straps.
For those who aren’t aware, I have recently taken on
the role of Convenor of the National Young Planners
Group, and will be looking to continue the great
work and enthusiasm of Anna Pullen, the outgoing
NYPG Convenor, and her predecessors over the
coming 2 years.
The tragic natural disaster events of the early part
of this year have really placed an emphasis on
the need for planners to be able to be forward
thinking and responsive. This edition of Connections
challenges us as planners to look at new and
innovative ways to rebuild our cities, spaces and
places. I trust that you will be motivated and
inspired as you read through this edition.
So, what’s in stall for young planners around the
nation in 2011? Well, to put it simply… lots!
Many of you would have recently attended the holy
grail of Young Planner initiatives recently in Hobart,
this being YPConnect 2011. YPConnect is an
annual congress organised by young planners for
young planners, looking at the big issues that matter
most to those who are in the early stages of their
planning career, but also relevant to those who are
more established too. This year’s Congress had a
jam-packed program revolving around professional
planning knowledge, land development know-how,
and vital career skills. Check out page 4 for a full
wrap up.
Next year YPConnect heads to Adelaide in late April 2012.
Perhaps your workplace or uni is able to help you financially
in making the trip? Get it on the radar now and start
thinking ahead about attending what will be yet another
amazing event.
It’s exciting to see the national roll out of Young Planner
mentoring programs, with New South Wales, Tasmania
and Victoria running their inaugural Programs, whilst
Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia are set
to continue their existing Programs. Those in the ACT and
Northern Territory don’t worry – mentoring opportunities are
currently being investigated, but for the time being, be sure
to get yourself along to as many PIA events and strike up
your networks with senior planning professionals.
The Rural & Regional Work Experience Program has run for
the last couple of years in Queensland and ran for the first
time in Western Australia at the end of 2010. All going well,
the Program should run again in each of these States, with
the possibility for an inaugural Program in New South Wales
later in 2011. Watch this space for more info.
The National Young Planners Group works to provide
services and programs for you, the young planning
professionals around Australia. So if you have any ideas
or suggestions for things that you think are important
for young planners, then feel free to drop us a line to
nypg@planning.org.au and we’ll see what we can do to
accommodate you.
On behalf of the National Young Planners Group, I wish you
all the best for the year ahead and trust that you will enjoy
the new format of the National Young Planner eMagazine.
Chris O’Connor
Convenor – National Young Planners Group
 the internet’s finest

Landscape+Urbanism
landscapeandurbanism.blogspot.com

The Landscape+Urbanism blog contains dialogue

and siftings focusing on landscape architecture,
sustainable urbanism, vegetated architecture, urban
agriculture, living walls, green roofs, ecological
planning and landscape urbanism theory. It’s more
centred around architecture, although there is some
great inspiration there for urban designers or those
interested in the urban form.
Project for Public Spaces
pps.org
Project for Public Spaces (PPS) is a New York based
non-profit organisation that helps to create and
sustain public places that build communities. The
site has case studies of projects that PPS have been
involved in, as well as tonnes of useful information
about place making and communities.

Cities of Theory
blog.roughtheory.org

Similar to the Cyburbia Forums, Cities of Theory is an

online discussion board with very interesting articles
on all things planning. It is also Australian based
which means it is much more helpful in acquiring
information. Categories discussed include transport,
Cyburbia
local government, social planning and discussions on
cyburbia.org
utopian planning such as Howard’s ‘Garden City’ or
Frank Lloyd Wright’s ‘Broadacres City’.
The Cyburbia Forums are an online international
planning community that discuss various
planning issues, from broad ranging topics as
urban regeneration to the Council policies on sign
regulations. The online community is world wide,
although dominated somewhat by the States.
Cyburbia also has a Job Board and a directory of
related web sites.

SYNCHRONICITY
synccity.blogspot.com

SYNCHRONICITY is the experience of two or

more events which occur in a meaningful manner,
but which are causally unrelated. In order to be
synchronous, the events must be related to one
another conceptually, and the chance that they would
occur together by random chance must be very
small.
 THE
WRAP
UP

what’s coming up and

whats been
YP Connect Hobart 2011
Australia’s Young Planners came together for the first weekend in March for YPConnect
2011.

Designed by the NYPG to challenge young planners to stretch their ideas, their
perspective on planning and their stamina, YPConnect11 in Hobart left us motivated,
excited, and exhausted. The weekend also left us with a renewed focus on what we can
do as young planners to develop solutions to meet the challenges we all face, both in
planning for better places, and planning our own lives in a better way.

The event began on Saturday at the Bahai Centre, a gorgeous space of learning. Over
lunch we studied the process of how the site and the building had been thoughtfully
and beautifully designed and planned. From there we unleashed upon Hobart Town
nearly 70 young planners for the Lester Franks Dare Devil Challenge. The teams spent
the afternoon getting to know Hobart, and each other. They hiked the streets through
Georgian cottages, discovered vital landmarks relating to Hobart’s links to whaling and
the Antarctic, danced with buskers, and a few even got married! The night ended with
welcome drinks at Lark Distillery with prizes for the most successful team.

The Sunday session began as the Heart Foundation, our platinum sponsors launched
their Neighbourhood Walkability Checklist, a tool for planners and other relevant
professionals in local government. This year’s YPC theme of ‘Snakes and Ladders’
encompassed the literal and figurative. So close to the heartland of Tasmania’s wild
places, we heard first from our keynote speaker the CEO of the Tasmanian Land
Conservancy Nathan Males, on how to prioritise and plan for the protection of wild
places.

The day was filled with fantastic speakers on a range of topics. Sessions on the ethics
of planning, a panel discussion featuring some feisty young planners, advice on work/
life balance, confidence in decision making and how to climb the ladder of success,
whatever your personal goals may be.

Unlike more traditional conference formats, YPConnect encourages involvement from the
crowd and the energy, questions and comments from the group on the day made for an
interactive, humorous, and exciting event.

Rounding out the day was a site visit to Princes Wharf Shed No.1 and a session on
planning for big events. As a member of the Violent Femmes and curator for MONA
FOMA, Brian Ritchie shared with us his thoughts from the perspective of both performer
and event organiser.
 There was so much jam-packed into one day. With these amazing speakers
giving their time generously for the love of young planners, as the day
unfolded common messages were revealed across the many varied speakers
and themes. Consistently we heard of the importance of ‘playing well with
others’ and a ‘can-do attitude’. Can we get a permit for a huge music event?
Yep, we can make that happen. Can we learn to work effectively with other
professionals, even engineers? Can we have confidence in our decision
making while remaining true to our own sense of ethics? Can we work hard
and play hard? Yep, we sure can.

Thanks must be given to all who assisted in producing such a great event.
The NYPG team, the Tassie Young Planners, and especially our generous
sponsors.

The next YPConnect is being hosted in Adelaide, contact our SA rep Chad to
get involved and stay tuned for more details.

Mary Bessell
YPConnect Convenor

Platinum Sponsor:

Sponsors:

Ode to Barry the Tassie Devil

THE
WRAP
UP
National Congress – Critical Mass
Following hot on the heels of YPC was the PIA National Congress, run over three days of conference
sessions, site visits and social events. The highlights included Enrique Penalosa, the former Mayor of
Bogata, Stephanie Donald who encouraged us to consider the place of children in urban landscapes
and Dan Pitera from the Detroit Design Collaborative (read more about what’s happening in Detroit on
page 16).

The site visits took planners to Mt Wellington, the Huon Valley, to MONA and more. With the
combination of Moorilla winery and the Museum of Old and New Art providing a fabulous day out.

On the social side, the Young Planners hosted the SJB Planning Heritage Crawl. Beginning with a
walking tour we heard how the early town planning of Hobart involved breweries in the hills of the city,
arguments over water rights, and dissatisfaction with local government. How things have changed!
After a quick quiz to test our new found knowledge we set off to sample the local brews, and hit the
dance floor for a great night out.

The Congress concluded with a black-tie gala dinner, where Laura Gannon was presented with the
Young Planner of the year award. Laura is a dedicated young planner, passionate and committed to
her career and her work with PIA, particularly the Queensland young planners. Big congrats Laura!

Mary Bessell
YPConnect Convenor

THE
WRAP
UP Laura Gannon
Commonwealth
The Commonwealth Association of Planners Young Planners Network is getting off the
ground and has established a virtual presence on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/home.
php?sk=group_147786551932101), Twitter (http://twitter.com/CAPYoungPlanner) and a monthly
discussion forum (http://capyoungplannersnetwork.freeforums.org/).

Please hop online and join this virtual community and be a part of this international network!

Stay tuned for more in the lead up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth later
this year!

Brooke Yates
Commonwealth Association of Planners Young Planner Network Convenor

Western Australia
2010 saw a variety of great events on offer for the WA Young Planners, not only providing a forum
for professional development and education, but providing an opportunity for informal and social
networking between professionals and students.

In early 2010, GHD consultants treated WA Young Planners to a night of great food, drinks and
networking, whilst providing an interesting insight into their diverse skill offering and how this can
deliver an integrated solution for their clients. GHD spoke to the group about the various projects
which their company has recently undertaken and how they have drawn on their multi-disciplinary skill
set.

This event provided a great opportunity for students and graduates to establish new relationships, be
educated about the various other disciplines that feed into the overall planning process – and possibly
even snap up a job!

In July, it was then RPS’s turn to host, which provided more of an ‘international flavour’. WA Young
Planners were given insight into planning in Canada and Sicily. Presentations were made by Hayley
Williams, winner of the H.E Bold travel Bursary in 2007 and Marcel Pidala, a Sicilian Town Planner.
Hayley informed the attendees of the benefits of winning the travel bursary and stepping into the
unknown, the opportunities it can provide for networking, international travel & real life planning
experience in other cultures.

Marcel’s presentation on Sicilian planning was as intriguing as it was educational. The strict controls,
the compromises and challenges faced by town planners in Sicily showed Perth planners just how
different planning can be. Marcel expressed fascination in our ability to sprawl and increase population
and made an intriguing comparison to Sicily, which has to accommodate more people than WA in little
to no space.

The year was brought to a close with an event in honour of the conclusion of the inaugural WA Young
Planner Mentoring Program. Both mentor and mentees were able to share their thoughts on the
Program, and offer constructive feedback on the program leading into 2011.

WA Upcoming Events
The WAYP had a great year of events in 2010, and with the kick off event for 2011 with presentation
on Urban Orchards set to be in April followed by the opening of the Mentoring Program in June/July, it
seems as our events are only going to get bigger and better!

THE
WRAP
Megan Gannon

UP
 New South Wales
Last September the NSW Young Planners visited a
series of small bars in Sydney. The event included
presentations on changing legislation allowing the
creation of small bars in the city as well as their impact
on place making. Being in small bars, networking was of
course on the agenda and a great time was had by all in
attendance.

Last year, in a move from purely young planner drinks,

the NSW YPs hosted the NSW Divisional Christmas
Drinks at the Argyle at the Rocks. A large crowd turned
up in what was a popular venue to celebrate the end
of another year in planning. The Christmas drinks are
always a highlight on the NSW YP calendar.

In February, the NSW Young Planners launched the

inaugural mentoring program. In the pilot program,
convened by James Li (former NSW NYPG Rep), we
had 5 pairings of enthusiastic mentors and mentees.
The launch event included some “getting to know you”
exercises as well as some information about how the
mentor mentee relationship works. The year to come will
no doubt prove a big success.

NSW Upcoming Events

As a different approach to the NSW Young Planners
traditional YP forum, we’re organising a YP Retreat. To
be held over two days as a “live in” event, it will offer the
chance for young planners to get to know each other
in a social environment whilst also offering fantastic
professional development advice.

Check out the link for more information ->

http://www.planning.org.au/events/event/planning-skills-
bootcamp-young-planners-pd-workshop-retreat

Tim Wilson

THE
WRAP
UP
Northern Territory
It’s hard to keep up with the vast amounts of planning news in the Territory but what can I say it’s
an exciting time to be a young planner working in the Northern Territory. Not only has there been
a number of exciting development applications that were on exhibition towards the end of 2010,
but on the 10th February 2011, Planning Minister Gerry McCarthy launched the “Greater Darwin
Region Land Use Plan Towards 2030 for public consultation”. The “Planning Minister Gerry
McCarthy said the Plan will help shape the social, residential and economic growth of the Greater
Darwin Region to 2025” (http://www.nt.gov.au/lands/growth/gdr_2030/archives/media.shtml).

In other news, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Tom Cannon, the former
Northern Territory YP Rep who handed over this amazing opportunity to me in October 2010.
Tom you have done an amazing job with raising the profile of Young Planners in the NT and I only
hope that I can continue to carry on what you have started. So from all of the young planners in
the NT a big thank you!!!

The NTYP Group is also in its final stages of finalizing our 2011 events calendar. This year in
addition to our normal functions we are hoping to provide our members with the opportunity to
network with a number of young professional groups in the Northern Territory. So stay tuned for THE
WRAP
the next edition.

Deborah Buise
UP

Australian Capital Territory

There is a lot happening in the planning space in the ACT at the moment, but here is a recap of what’s been going on
and what’s to come:

There are potential changes afoot in planning arrangements in Canberra following the review of the ACT Public
Service by Dr Alan Hawke. Of particular interest was the recommendation to align the planning, environment,
heritage and transport planning functions (currently in separate departments) under one Sustainable Development
Directorate. Implementation of some of the recommendations should commence in July 2011. Hawke has also
been commissioned to review the role of the National Capital Authority, so ACT planners will have to wait with baited
breath to see what affect this will have on our dual planning system.

On March 24, young and older planners alike were treated to an evening of short, sharp presentations from some
of our Division’s Fellows. The admission to the grade of Fellow is by invitation of PIA National Council only and is
only extended to those individuals who are considered to have made an exceptional contribution to the planning
profession and/or the Planning Institute of Australia over a significant period of time.

The format of the evening was PechaKucha, which allows each speaker to show 20 images for 20 seconds
each, thus limiting the presentations to 6 minutes 40 seconds. The speakers ranged from a former Senator, to a
locally renowned activist to active and retired practitioners. They spoke about a range of topics, from the roads
they travelled to become planners, their particular areas of interest and challenges facing the profession and the
community. It was a great night and a particularly good format!

On April 19, PIA ACT will come head-to-head with AILA (Australian Institute of Landscape Architects) for a great
debate entitled “the landscape should play no role in planning Canberra for 2050”.

The impending winter will see the return of the Planners in the Pub series – stay tuned for dates, locations and
speakers!

Unfortunately, my term as ACT Division YP Representative is coming to an end and very soon the Division will be
calling for nominations for the position. Start having a think about whether or not the next ACT Rep might be you!

Brooke Yates
Queensland
The past few months have been quite an extraordinary time for
Queensland with the unpredictability of Mother Nature causing
widespread devastation and heartbreak right across the State. Out
thoughts are first and foremost with those who have endured the loss
of loved ones and property and those communities which are currently
trying to rebuild, in more ways than one.

The recent extreme weather events in Queensland has affected the

operation of a number of key Queensland Young Planner programs
and events. Our Regional Work Experience Program has unfortunately
been delayed until later this year, recognising the priorities of rural
and regional Council’s in the rebuilding of critical infrastructure and
community services. Likewise, our 2011 Mentoring Program was
delayed slightly, but was officially launched on 28 February 2011
with 70 people, or 35 pairs, participating this year. Our launch event
attracted 45 of our program participants, eager to meet their respective
mentors and mentees, who all had a terrific night with thanks to the
Queensland University of Technology.
THE
WRAP
The Queensland Young Planners Group (QYPG) is currently in the full
swing of organising and hosting our annual Welcome Functions for UP
all first year university students enrolled in PIA accredited programs.
QYPG is hosting 8 Welcome Functions this year, including events at
James Cook University Campuses in Cairns and Townsville, University
of the Sunshine Coast, Bond University and Griffith Gold Coast
Campuses as well as UQ, QUT and Griffith Nathan.

To help in the flood relief cause, the QYPG is also organising a

fundraising trivia night which will be help in late March/early April
and planning has also commenced on a host of other social and
professional development events for 2011, including our annual full day
Young Planners Conference – Building Your Career 2011.

2011 will be an exciting year for all Queensland Planners, but

particularly our Young Planners who will undoubtedly rise to the
challenge currently facing our regional, rural and metropolitan areas.

Laura Gannon
 Victoria
It’s been a busy start to the year for the Victorian Young Planners. I’d also like to take this
opportunity to welcome Gareth Hately- our new state representative.

Victoria has started 2011 with a bang, not only have we set our upcoming years events in
concrete (dates and all!) we have found time to hold a meeting seeking feedback from the
committee in terms of the types of events we are running, general committee operations and
nominations.

So, what do you have to look forward to this year?

On March 23rd we are holding our welcome back drinks, a free event which will aim to integrate
our new student planners into the deep dark world of planning. Shortly after, we will be holding
a social event which includes the golfing range…calling all perspective golfers!

Moving into the year we will be formally launching our mentoring program in a similar format to
the other states. Following on from this, there will be panel debates, professional speakers and
of course…networking!

We encourage new members to get involved, particularly our new students! Keep tuned
Victoria- VYP just got a whole lot bigger!

Jessica Noonan

South Australia
November 2010 saw Adelaide host the EAROPH (Eastern Regional Organisation for Planning
and Human Settlements) Golden Jubilee Congress, an international event attracting more than
400 delegates from across the region, from Melbourne right through to Mongolia. One of the top
events for Young Planners at EAROPH was the Young Leaders forum. Chaired by Simon Tonkin
of Masterplan (the session sponsors), Simon professionally facilitated the session which provided
excellent insight into the minds of potential future young planner employers. A panel comprising
private and public sector staff, each gave a brief talk on topics ranging from the difference
between working in public vs. private sectors, to the role of planning education and institutions.
The relaxed yet professional nature of the session stimulated a lot of conversation between the
audience and the panel leaving the audience energised and excited about their careers.

Blink and you will miss it, 2011 is turning out to be a very busy year for planning in South Australia
with a strong mix of social and professional events planned.

The South Australian Young Planners infamous Quiz night is back in July 2011 with a new
location and a new format. The Building Your Career series of seminars is also back in November
2011 with this years’ BYC focused on the Environment and Resources Development Court
system, this will be an event not to be missed for those who haven’t been through the appeals
process or for those who just want to ‘brush up’ on their skills.

In response to recent input from members PIA is coming to regional South Australia with an urban
and regional planning themed, two day conference being held in Mount Gambier in September.
Watch out for a session targeted at the needs of young planners in rural areas.

Upcoming South Australian Events:

• Built Environment Meets Parliament – 6th April
• DTEI control centre tour – 28th April
• “Re Humanising the way we move- sharing the Streets” – 13th May
• Dracula – A bloody good musical – 28th May
• SAYP Quiz Night – 8th July
• Social Impact Training – 14th July
• Regional Seminar, Mount Gambier – 22-23rd September
• Building Your Career, ERD Court – November

Chad King
Tasmania
The end of 2010 was celebrated with a fun-filled evening at the chic Rain Check lounge in North Hobart.
The Christmas dinner was hosted by the Young Planners and generously sponsored by Pitt & Sherry.
Members were rewarded with a raincheck from day-to-day planning over a fabulous night of dinner
and drinks. The year’s Mike Shield award for best student in a planning related course at Tas Uni was
awarded to Claire Wolf. Thanks to Pitt & Sherry and all who attended for a great night and congratulation
to Claire, we wish you every success in your planning career.

The beginning of 2011 was marked with a bang as the launch of the pilot mentoring program began. An
overwhelming number of participants are partaking in the program and the response to date has been
very positive. Tasmania has a highly dispersed population and many Councils are under-resourced
therefore the program presents a unique opportunity for up and coming planners to get some extra
assistance and guidance in a supportive framework. The program will follow an informal structure in
order to allow additional participants throughout the course of the year and I encourage those interested
to partake.

The year presents an exciting time for the Tasmanian Division with a newly appointed State President
and a very eager team of Young Planners geared up for providing relevant and contemporary
professional development events and social gatherings over a glass of vino.

Whilst dates and venues have not been finalised at this point, the list of intended events this year include
(and are not limited to):

• University Welcomes
• Mentoring Program Wine Tour
• Professional Development Site Tour
• Lunchtime Seminar on drafting permit conditions from the eyes of a lawyer

Amanda Beyer

THE
WRAP
UP
Western Australia
Regional and Rural Work Experience Program

The business end of 2010 marked the commencement of the Western Australia Young Planners Group
(WAYPG) Regional and Rural Work Experience Program. The program involved a three week work placement
for the selected participants in which there was a representative of Edith Cowan University and Curtin
University. The two workplaces included the Shire of East Pilbara and the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley a
student was allocated to each.

Initially the Program was developed by the Queensland Young Planners Group in 2009 in response to the PIA
National Inquiry into Planning Education and Employment (2004). The Inquiry identified that regional and rural
areas suffer from a long-term shortage of planners and experience difficulty in recruiting planning staff.

The PIA WA Regional and Rural Work Experience Program has been developed to provide a means of
promoting rural and regional planning experience amongst young planners. The Program encourages young
planners to participate in and support the effectiveness of the planning system and planning projects in regional
and rural areas.

The endorsement of young planners by regional and rural Local Government Authorities and /or workplaces
with rural and regional offices, may result in the opportunity for the provision of potential future long-term
recruitment opportunities for young planners in regional and rural areas that are experiencing chronic shortages
in planning staff.

For the purposes of the Program, an eligible Participant may be a 3rd or 4th Year undergraduate or
postgraduate planning student. With respect to the workplace the focus was on a workplace situated outside
of the Perth, Peel and the South West regions of Western Australia in order to provide the exposure to the
planning experience we believed the students would gain the most from.

Given the program was a pilot program, it was a great outcome and are looking to run again in 2011. Many
thanks must go to all involved but first and foremost to the students and the workplaces for their willingness to
participate.

The WAYPG will soon be seeking expressions of interest from students wishing to participate in 2011, this will
be circulated through a number of different media easily accessible to young planners, so jump on facebook
and stalk away or email Tyson at Tyson@allerdingassoc.com. We look forward to working with those lucky
participants for 2011.

Addressing challenges for young planners

The PIA WA Young Planners Mentoring Program (YPMP) commenced formally
in March 2010. The program was developed to retain young planners in the
planning profession. The program is seen to be:

“a mutually beneficial relationship that involves a more experienced

person helping a less experienced person to identify and achieve their
goals”.

In 2010, the program in WA has seen 23 mentors paired with mentees. Of which two mentees have been offered and
accepted jobs. John Oh, one of the students who has gained employment following the YPMP, had the following
comments to make about the YPMP program:

As a recent graduate I found it difficult to gain employment. I had applied to as many jobs as I could, gone for a few
interviews, but was still unsuccessful.

The YPMP program paired me up with Neil Teo, a consultant planner. Neil and I agreed to meet once a month. Neil
was a great help and provided some advice. I utilised much of this when interviewed at the Shire of Bridgetown-
Greenbushes, and was fortunate to be offered the position as Planning Officer.

The WAYP is now seeking mentor and mentees for the 2011/12 program. To register your interest in participating in the
YPMP, or to obtain more information, please contact:

• Lloyd Anderson on 0438941783; or

• Email to wamentoring@planning.org.au.

The program will commence in June/July. Keep an eye out for more news to come!
ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES
FACING PLANNING AT THE BEGINNING
OF THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY
... is how to revitalise cities. Today, cities are seen as assets
rather than liabilities. Their role as engines of economic growth
is widely accepted and their spheres of influence the city is
becoming recognised as fundamental building blocks in the
national fabric.
Creative or negative
destruction?
Jessica Noonan and Gareth Hately

Our cities and suburbs have long been the victim of

various levels of destruction, whether this destruction is
creative or not is a subjective matter. Creative destruction So where do we go from here? Do we put faith in
in the most simplistic of terms is the regeneration of the market or should we do more to encourage the
urban fabric in the face of a particular change. Creative redevelopment of the so called “strategic” sites within the
destruction needs to be provoked or awoken. Social inner city in an attempt to facilitate a desired outcome?
and environmental factors will play a greater part in
creative destruction in the future, but economic reform With a carbon-constrained economy becoming a
has been the catalyst of much of the creative destruction fast reality, housing affordability considered a major
experienced today. issue and a populace that has a high reliance on
private transportation it seems appropriate that we as
Opinions on what constitutes ‘creative’ and what is plain professionals facilitate the development of key inner
destruction will always differ. There is an argument that city sites. The question needs to be asked, what are the
through stifling the natural fruition of our urban fabric barriers that are preventing creative destruction from
we create a stagnant environment absent of character taking up the challenge and developing these sites?
and culture. The transformative approach utilised by Could the cost prohibitive nature of land contamination
companies such as Urban Splash; converting derelict be a stifling factor preventing creative construction? Is it a
manufacturing sites into thriving residential communities developer’s inability to produce something other than the
throughout the UK, illustrates the unique opportunity status quo preventing progress?
creative destruction creates.
It is our job as planners to anticipate the problems coming
Gentrification has sparked the creative destruction of over the horizon – a carbon constrained economy,
much of Melbourne’s inner suburbs. Kensington and affordable housing and oil scarcity need to be front
North Melbourne that were traditionally noted as workers and centre! We need to stop, take stock and ensure
housing and manufacturing areas have evolved in the that we allow creative destruction to facilitate higher
face of economic reform. These areas are now prime density affordable living in the key inner city areas,
examples of vibrant, culturally diverse, high-density city like Kensington and North Melbourne. Without such a
environments that have advanced in the absence of major facilitative approach, we would be doing a disservice to
planning intervention. Does this mean that planning has our community and the credibility of our profession.
no role in this evolutionary process?
 Alex Frankcombe

Detroit
...the once-proud capital of industrialisation and the synonym of the American automobile industry is now the
paragon of de-industrialisation and urban decay. Ever since the boom days of the 1950s, Detroit has been shrinking.
This decay and the subsequent exodus of people has led to increased poverty, loss of employment opportunities,
dilapidated buildings and hectares of vacant urban land returning to its original form. The recent global financial
crisis and decline of the auto industry has accelerated this pattern. As the local shop owners close and leave the city,
more follow, thus fuels the spiral of decline experienced in many rural towns of Australia. The local government is
unable to support those left behind with the now extremely diminished revenue base, whilst the population lacks
the financial means of creating an energetic community. Through failed initiatives from the city government and
private enterprise, such as the failed revitalisation of the foreshore are through the building of the MGM casino and
the Detroit Renaissance Center, the rhetoric of a failed city is reinforced. Needless to say the urban vitality of Detroit
never recovered from the swinging days of ‘Motown’.

The Brookings Institution ranked Detroit as the hardest hit metropolitan region in America , according to their
MetroMonitor Index (Wial and Friedhoff 2010). That is not to say that these negative sentiments are not factual,
the city’s population has been on the decline for some time, public schools are facing massive deficits (Florida
2010; Jones 2009) and the unemployment rate is a staggering 14.9% in December 2009 (Wial and Friedhoff 2010)
although this figure could be ‘closer to 50 percent’ according to Mayor Dave Bing at a jobs forum in Washington at
the same time (Wilkinson 2009).

‘The landscape is postapocalyptic’ Richard Florida (2010, 79)

 HOWEVER, the loss of population from the urban core offers the both cities an opportunity start a new direction by
building on its assets.

The silver lining of this exodus for Detroit is the abundance of land and reusable structures. The urban core of Detroit
is surrounded by a number of communities with strong civic and community leadership. Grassroots projects such
as the People’s Art Festival, the Russell Bazaar, the numerous community gardens created through programs such
as The Greening of Detroit as well as the world renowned outdoor art installation; the Heidelberg Project. A report
by the American Institute of Architects notes that within Detroit ‘there are visible signs of revitalization, renewed
economic energy and urban vitality coming from the entrepreneurial spirit of a diverse population with strong civic
and community leadership’.

The situation for Detriot isn’t great to say the least; however, the same could have been said for Pittsburgh, once
known as the ‘Smoky City’ it was home to major steel industries such as Westinghouse, Alcoa and Heinz, between
1860 and 1900 the population grew by 600%, this boom continued until the 1950 when the steel industry crashed
between the early 1970s and late 80s (Mazmanian and Kraft 1999; Hoerr 1988). However, Richard Florida, in his most
recent publication The Great Reset, notes that the thousands of workers who were laid off ‘went out and got training
and college degrees…It was not a federal action, top down solution… but a grassroots groundswell’ (2010, 78). The
city is now college town and ranks in the top 40 strongest metropolitan regions in America (Wial and Friedhoff 2010).

Florida is cautiously optimistic about Detroit, noting that it has a world-class airport, numerous universities as well
as ‘a world-class center (sic) for architecture, art, and design’ (2010, 79). He argues that the suburban areas have high
levels of human capital and education as well as being home to some of the ‘world’s most advanced engineering
technology and design facilities’ (2010, 79). Detroit has retained some of its musical prowess since the days of
Motown, artists such as Iggy Pop, Bob Seger, the White Stripes, Kid Rock and Eminem have emerged from the city
and whilst most have moved from the region, some remain.

Detroit has a substantial creative spark… It has greater diversity and, in my estimation, a higher “coolness
factor” than many other places. Detroit’s downtown core is revitalizing, albeit slowly. Beyond the new
stadiums and casinos a more organic grassroots kind of redevelopment is taking place. A designated
“creative corridor” around Wayne State University and the city’s cultural institutions is springing back with
coffee shops, art galleries, new restaurants, even a bed-and-breakfast.

Young tech firms and design and architectural companies are converting old factories and warehouses
into office space. New generations of young professionals and even some young families are moving back
downtown into revitalized districts such as the city’s fabled Lafayette Park… One writer even claimed that
the city was turning into a veritable laboratory for innovative approaches to urban revitalization
(Florida 2010, 80).
Detroit is going to need more than these few small pockets of hope to
overcome the disappearance of its industrial legacy. It is likely to take a
generation, probably two, for Detroit to bounce back from this economic
crisis. That’s about how long it took Boston to recover from the manufacturing
crisis of the 1970s, or for Pittsburgh to undergo its renaissance

Richard Florida (2010, 80)

In a discussion of another opportunity for creative destruction, New Orleans post Hurricane Katrina, Campanella
(2006) argues that urban resilience is ‘largely a function of resilient and resourceful citizens’ (141). He maintains that
cities cannot simply recover through the reconstruction of physical infrastructure they require the rehabilitation
of the social fabric and networks through grassroots citizen involvement (Campanella 2006). Whilst Perth is simply
trying to invent its vitality and Detroit is trying the reinvent itself. It’s quite clear that Detroit has the ingredients for
urban vitality and whilst the government can try to facilitate the development of creative and energetic cities the
responsibility lies on the shoulders of the citizens to take charge and reinvigorate and revive their city.

‘ The people in Detroit know that they are on their own, and if they want something done they have
to do it themselves. Nobody from the city is coming to help them. And they’ve found some very

’
creative ways to deal with the challenges that result
Aaron Renn (2009, 1)

In 1986, local artist Tyree Guyton and his grandfather and wife took paintbrush and broom to the neighborhood, now known as the
Heidelberg Project, in the hopes of transforming the urban decay into a public art environment. Cleaning up vacant lots, they collected
junk and trash and repurposed it as art to link the concepts of discarded objects and discarded communities and people.
 ‘Torre de David’
One of Latin America’s tallest skyscrapers, Centro Financiero Confinanzas, also known as ‘Torre
de David’ (the Tower of David), was meant to be a symbol of Venezuela’s entrepreneurial spirit.
However, today the building symbolises something completely different as the city grapples
with an acute housing shortage. The estimated 2,500 squatters live in the uncompleted high-
rise, which lacks several basic amenities like an elevator.

Early this year the New York Times [link] visited the site and found;

‘[The] Tower of David squatters, who live on 28 stories and plan to go higher,
have created a semblance of order within the skyscraper. Sentries with walkie-
talkies guard entrances. Each inhabited floor has electricity, jury-rigged to the
grid, and water is transported up from the ground floor. Residents chafe at being
called “invaders,” the term here for squatters, preferring the less contentious word
“neighbor.”’

As one of the most potent symbols of 20th century civilisation, the skyscraper’s role
continues to evolve organically and charismatically.

Alex Frankcombe

This failed Venezuelan skyscraper is being used the world’s tallest

squatters residence. At 45 storeys high, it’s a hell of a walk to get
up into this shanty town – the elevators never got installed. The
building, known locally as The Tower of David, stands as a stark
reminder of Venezuela’s drastic economic woes and its growing
homeless population.

Rupert Dance
“If you’d like to receive a fortnightly email with other interesting and
emerging ideas in planning, email rupertd@dlaaust.com”
Tim Wilson

Local Example
BARANGAROO
The name “Barangaroo” comes
One of the most ambitious and significant waterfront projects anywhere in the
from the wife of Bennelong,
after which Bennelong Point
world, Barangaroo will transform the western fringe of Sydney’s CBD into a
(home of the Sydney Opera
public space, commercial and residential environment.
House) is named. Both Bennelong
and Barangaroo were powerful
Originally, the site of Barangaroo comprised a headland and a series of finger
indigenous people during the time
wharves, with subsequent alterations including the construction of a large
of early colonisation.
concrete expanse used for a container terminal. As Sydney Harbour is no longer
used as a port the area has been underutilised.

The 22ha site includes 1.4km of harbour foreshore. Under the concept proposal,
the bulk of this would be returned for public open space. The site is to be
split into 3 sections. The northern section incorporates a new headland park,
reverting to the 1836 shore line and providing a recreation space for city workers
and residents. The central section will serve as a link between the headland park
and the southern section, and will include civic, educational and recreational
facilities. A key feature of the central section will be 2.7ha of new harbour
water area through the creation of a Northern Cove. The southern section
of Barangaroo will house the bulk of
development, including an international
hotel, 500 apartments, a waterfront
restaurant precinct and commercial office
space. The whole Barangaroo precinct
will incorporate sustainable transport
including cycle and pedestrian paths,
particularly to the nearby Wynyard train
station.

The Barangaroo Development Authority’s

role is to guide the future development of
the precinct to ensure the best outcomes
for the people of NSW.

Barangaroo Aerial Facing South East

PERTH

Whilst not without controversy,

Redevelopment Authorities (RAs) have
succeeded in creating successful and even vibrant
communities in locations considered too difficult, constrained or
unattractive for development to be left in the hands of the market.

These quasi-government agencies, including the East Perth Redevelopment

Authority (EPRA), the Subiaco Redevelopment Authority (SRA), the Midland
Redevelopment Authority (MRA), the Armadale Redevelopment Authority (ARA)
and the Hope Valley-Wattleup Redevelopment Authority (HVWRA), act as
both local government and developer. Under their respective Acts, RAs have
the ability to resume land, undertake environmental rehabilitation and plan,
implement, promote and co-ordinate regeneration projects.

EPRA has, since 1991, has been responsible for the redevelopment of over 220
hectares of inner city land in East Perth, the CBD and Northbridge.

One of EPRA’s current key projects is the Perth Cultural Centre. In the past,
despite its location and key cultural assets, the Perth Cultural Centre has failed
to realise its potential as a successful and iconic hub. EPRA’s focus for this
project is on place activation and seeks to draw visitors to the area by creating
a vibrant urban precinct. Perthians are starting to see the fruits of EPRA’s
labour, with an increasing number of events and festivals being held in the
PCC, including the recent Fringe World, Laneway Festival and temporary art
installations such as the ‘Dachshund UN’.

The government is now progressing a legislative proposal to replace the

East Perth, Subiaco, Midland and Armadale RAs with a central metropolitan
redevelopment authority. The Minister for Planning, Hon. John Day, has said
that it is hoped the legislation will be in place in time to establish a new authority
in 2011. “Consolidating the redevelopment authorities will create opportunities
for cost savings and improvements in governance and administrative efficiency, while retaining the
benefit of a flexible redevelopment authority model,” Mr. Day commented.

The implications of a single Perth Redevelopment Authority, in terms of efficiency, management and
outcomes, at this stage can only be speculated. However, it is without doubt that it will continue to
be an interesting story, particularly in the face of the Waterfront Project (to
be undertaken by the City of Perth with EPRA), arguably the RAs’ most
challenging project yet.

Siân Morgan
Station Revitalisation
Louise Howells

For many cities, railway stations are the key elements of urban centrality and activity and represent an impressive
architectural achievement unmatched in any other type of transportation terminal.

Many stations throughout the world have undergone waves of renovations as transportation has changed and
new ways of using a station have evolved. Grand Central Station in New York, Union Station (Washington DC),
and Chicago Union Station are notable examples where revitalisation has transformed these stations into iconic
landmarks surrounded by a mix of uses and hive of activity. Grand Central Station was close to being partly
demolished to enable the construction of a 55 story tower, though development was quashed after a 10 year court
battle and designation of the Grand Central Terminal as a landmark protected by law. Extensive renovations in 1994
restored it to its original splendour and it now houses five restaurants and cocktail lounges, a Dining Concourse and
50 shops.

Opportunities to redevelop around stations sites are sparking major redevelopment projects throughout Australia.
Perth’s City Link will allow redevelopment of a 13.5ha strip between Perth and Northbridge into 1650 new apartments
for more than 3000 residents, and 244,000sqm of new commercial and retail space as a result of sinking the railway
and the ageing Wellington Bus Station. The City of Sydney’s Sustainable Sydney 2030 plan includes a grand vision
to develop up to 500,000 square metres of retail and business space above railway lines at Sydney’s Central Station
that currently sever and scar the city.

Central city train stations have provided and continue to provide opportunities worldwide to redevelop and revitalise
city areas and create stations as destinations. This has often been undertaken with recognition and respect to the
historical significance of the stations.
Per
th’s
Cit
yL
ink
cities back from
the brink
Toss aside your preconceptions, and come with us on a tour of the greatest comeback cities in the world.
Once deep down in the urban dumps, these cities have bounced back from the brink of becoming no-go
destinations, turning destructive pasts into creative urban come-back king poster childs. Whoa that’s a mouth
full.

One of the most important issues facing planning at the beginning of the twenty-first century is how to
revitalise cities. Today, cities are seen as assets rather than liabilities. Their role as engines of economic
growth is widely accepted and their spheres of influence the city is becoming recognised as fundamental
building blocks in the national fabric.
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima was a relatively unknown city in Western culture until the nuclear attack in August 1945. It is estimated
that more than 100,000 people died as a result of the initial blast and aftermath of the first nuclear attack in history.
Hiroshima was utterly destroyed with only few buildings left standing. Afterwards, the Japanese “ground zero”
became a universal symbol of this horrific and unprecedented form of modern warfare. It is hard to comprehend
what the immediate aftermath must have been like in Hiroshima. There were the tragic tasks of collecting the bodies
and clearing the rubble and debris. In all, 2.4 million square miles had to be cleared and surveyed - a painstaking
process that took four years.

Hiroshima’s officials struck up the idea to reinvent the city. They proposed the construction of a large peace
memorial as the city’s new anchor. The memorial eventually became the Peace Memorial Park, a graceful 30-
acre site not too far from ground zero. The park was designed by the late famed Japanese architect Kenzo Tange
and was completed in 1954. The park’s emotional centerpiece became the Peace Museum which was dedicated
to recalling the horror of nuclear war. Over the next two years the occupying government (The Americans) gave
Hiroshima the extra aid it needed. This allowed the city to begin its recovery - both psychologically and economically.

Today, Hiroshima is a pleasant, prosperous city of 1.2 million people and has a significant manufacturing
industry with key outputs including the production of Mazda vehicles, automotive parts and industrial equipment.
Comprehensive ‘post-disaster planning’ such as this was a new concept. Previously, it was typical to resort to a
pragmatic form of ‘readjustment’ in the wake of fire, earthquakes, and floods. As architectural historian Carola Hein
points out, Hiroshima’s rebuilding and the role played by Kenzo Tange, were exceptional in the Japanese context.
While the full scope of the ambitious master plan went unrealised, Tange’s architectural centrepiece (Hiroshima
Peace Memorial Museum) still resonates with poetic dignity.

Matt Morgan (WA)

 Beirut, aLebanon
cosmopolitan and cultural center for the Middle East

In recent years the Lebanese capital of Beirut has become world renowned as a
destination for tourists from both the Arab world and West. The once destroyed city
centre is thriving once again. Its former reputation as a crossroads between three continents and gateway to the
East has been restored.

Beirut has forever had a rich and diverse culture evolved under the influence of many different cultures and
civilizations, such as Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Ottoman Turks as well as the French.

Beirut city center has evolved around a site continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years. While respecting this past,
its reconstruction and development is creating a modern district, spreading over 191 hectares (472 acres) of land,
one-third on reclaimed land. A private joint-stock company, Solidere, has been entrusted with the implementation of
the project.

Solidere is widely credited as the most important force behind Beirut’s reemergence, in recent years, as a bustling
urban destination with a chance to earn back its ancient title of “Paris of the Middle East.” Solidere’s main functions
are the supervision of the government-authorized reconstruction plan, financing and developing the infrastructure,
new construction and rehabilitation of war-torn structures, urban landscaping and the management of property.
Solidere has worked to attract global retailers such as Virgin Megastores to Beirut Central District. The company’s
most significant single project to date has been Beirut Souks, a 100,000 m2 retail center that was scheduled to open
by year 2008. However it opened in 2009. Other ongoing developments include the Garden of Forgiveness, Platinum
Tower and the Marina Towers luxury residential complex.

This ambitious city-making venture, both in post-war reconstruction, inner city regeneration and waterfront
development, has received international acclaim as a model of sustainable urban development. In 2009 the New
York Times named Beirut as the number one city to visit and later CNN played a video of Beirut depicting it as ‘the
best party city in the world’. Recently the British Sunday Times labeled Beirut as perhaps the number-one place to
visit in the whole world in 2010.

Bronwyn Jenkins (WA)

 Tenements, or large apartment buildings, have become the
most popular form of housing in Glasgow throughout the 20th
century. Inevitably, a plethora of this form of housing throughout
the central city areas of Glasgow led to overcrowding, social and
health problems. The City became somewhat infamous for street
crime, gang violence and urban decay. Problems extended such
that Glasgow incurred population loss; a rare predicament by
contemporary standards. Early attempts to mitigate urban problems
involved comprehensive demolition of tenement buildings and the
development of new tower blocks on the periphery of the city. This
strategy drew widespread criticism in that it was wasteful and short-
sighted and was considered to have destroyed many fine examples
of an admired architectural style. Later efforts were tailored towards
recognising heritage values and involved the regeneration and
reinvention of previously blighted areas.

Perhaps the most successful project is the regeneration of the once bleak Clyde Waterfront. Originally
industrial docklands, the Scottish Government in partnership with Scottish Enterprise and Glasgow City
Council helped to coordinate the regeneration of a 20 kilometre stretch of the river which runs through
the City centre. Vacant and derelict land was resumed and large scale redevelopment began; the process
similar to that of redevelopment authorities in the Perth Metropolitan Area. The Glasgow Harbour was
completed between 2001 and 2006 and is quickly becoming a business and tourism hub of the City.
Similarly, provision of mixed-use commercial and residential areas along the waterfront has been successful
beyond expectation. Achievements continued along the Clyde Waterfront with funding being allocated
towards clean-up of the river, the provision of walkways along the river, lighting-up of bridges, installation
of CCTV cameras and construction of pontoons along the waterfront. The redevelopment has had a
stimulating impact on the local economy and continues at the present time in order to prepare the City for
the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Trent Will (WA)

Rotterdam, The etherlands
How is it that one of the world oldest and busiest port cities became known as an edgy, modern, and vibrant city of
culture? It is all due to creative destruction. Creative destruction, although originally derived from Marxist economic
theory, has found popularity through economist Joseph Schumpeter (Marx & Engels 1848, Reinert & Reinert 2006).
Schumpeter promoted it as a theory of economic evolution in which new industries are born through innovation that
ultimately destroys older obsolete ways of trade and industry.

This is what happened in Rotterdam after the bombing of the city in WWII. The obliteration of the Rotterdam city
centre gave the planners and the people the chance to create a new city; to evolve the city, creating renewed
opportunities and directions. Overtime the plans for the reconstruction of the city shifted from the 1946 ‘Basic Plan’
which segregated uses, to the 1993-2000 ‘Inner City Plan’ which promoted urban intensification through mixed use
districts (McCarthy 1998). While the reconstruction of the city from the late 1940s through to the 1970s was nothing
inspiring, it was the city councils from the 1980s onward that developed an active architectural policy that drew
attention.

The 1985 ‘Inner City Plan’ saw the development of cultural and recreational facilities to lure commercial investors
and inner city residents (Rotterdam City Information Centre 1996). The 1985 plan aimed to more effectively integrate
the various functions of the city centre whilst proposing four themed areas: the central square for shops, offices,
and public buildings; the ‘Museum Triangle’ for culture and recreation; the Waterstad area for maritime recreation
and tourism uses; and the Kop van Zuid area south of the river as a new commercial district (Hajer 1993). It was the
expansion of cultural facilities within the ‘Museum Triangle’ and Waterstad area that was the most significant aspect
of the plan. It was this active pursuit of a cultural image for the city that attracted new business to Rotterdam (Hajer
1993, McCarthy 1998).

The revised 1993-2000 ‘Inner City Plan’ continued the process of inner city gentrification, with particular focus on the
Kop van Zuid area (McCarthy 1996). The area, previously used for port activities, provided the crucial link between
the two sides of the river. The project saw daring new styles of apartments, office buildings and recreation facilities
being built on both sides of the river.

But it was not only the physical structure of the city that had been transformed; the city became known for its
creative population, particularly musicians, and the multitude of cultural institutions.
What creative destruction has done for Rotterdam is given the city an opportunity to rebrand themselves. From a
traditional port town to one of great art, architecture, science and culture. The ambitious architectural policy resulted
in more than a vibrant city centre with a dynamic skyline, but also encouraged the emergence of new industries
which make the city what it is today.

Jesslyn Nelson (ACT)

References:
Hajer, M A (1993) Rotterdam: re-designing the public domain. In Cultural Policy
and Urban Regeneration: The West European Experiences, eds F Bianchini and
M. Parkinson, pp 48-72. Manchester University Press, Manchester.
Marx, K and Engels, F (1848) The Communist Manifesto.
McCarthy, J (1996) Waterfront regeneration in the Netherlands: the cases of
Rotterdam and Maastricht. European Planning Studies 4, 545-560.
McCarthy, J (1998) Reconstruction, regeneration and re-imaging: the case of
Rotterdam. Cities, Vol. 15, No. 5, pp337-344
Reinert, H and Reinert, E S (2006) Creative Destruction in Economics:
Nietzsche, Sombart, Schumpeter. http://www.springerlink.com/content/
j0g1348m35327v04/. Accessed 19 February 2011.
Rotterdam City Information Centre (1996) The 1993-200 Inner City Plan: Halfway
There. Rotterdam City Information Centre, Rotterdam.
Rotterdam City Information Centre (1997) Reconstruction 1940-1990. Rotterdam
City Information Centre, Rotterdam.
V lg grad Russia
“Not a step back!” The paradoxical words of Starlin’s Order No. 227 have a special relevance to the south western
Russian city of Volgograd. A long chequered history involving civil war, world war, boom and bust, Volgograd Russia
has never been strongly associated with tourism, however this bounce back city is changing. This city once known
as Stalingrad after the then communist leader, was the scene to one of the most brutal battles of World War II.
Crippled after a 6 month long battle claiming hundreds of thousands of Russian and German lives, the bloody Battle
of Stalingrad razed the city to a pile of rubble.

Settled on the convergence of the Volga and Don rivers and located between the Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Georgia
the city services east west trade and has developed into a key road, rail and nautical hub. The completion of the
Volga–Don Canal shortly after the end of World War 2 embedded the cities importance as a link between the
Caspian Sea and the Sea of Azov and formed the final link in the Arctic to Mediterranean network which stimulated
the rebuilding of the city.

Fast forward to the current day, 68 years after the battle, reconstruction has long since finished, Volgograd has
returned from the brink and flourished into a modern Russian city offering a unique tourist experience. The scars of
World War II are not hidden, but instead the city embraces its heritage and highlights the torment of war through
public art, memorials and museums such as the ‘Museum Panorama’ and the ‘Hall of Military Glory’ (pictured). The
recent completion of the Volgograd Bridge, a 7100 metre long bridge
over the Volga River has reinforced the cities role as a transport hub
providing a valuable link in the European road (E40) network.

After being annihilated during the Battle of Stalingrad, Volgograd has

returned from the brink and flourished into a 1 million strong, modern,
industrialised city which isn’t afraid to reflect on where it has come
from and what has been achieved.

Chad King (SA)

 elgrade, erbia
Belgrade, Serbia is the capital and largest city of Serbia. But no one would have thought that this was
possible post World War I and World War II, coming back from the dead not only once, but twice.

Belgrade took a pounding in World War I where it lost 33% of its entire population, falling to approximately
20,000 people at one stage before recovering to approximately 240,000 people by 1929 and 350,000 by
1939. But, just when things were looking up, Belgrade copped it again in World War II, with many thousands
killed in the German air raids and tens of thousands of people placed in concentration camps.

Fortunately, Belgrade recovered quickly after WWII, growing to approximately 1 million people by 1972,
largely motivated by the city being a capital and major industrial hub of Yugoslavia. By 1991, its population
peaked at 1.85 million.

With a current population of around 1.7 million, Belgrade is now one of the largest cities in Southeastern
Europe. The City is reported to have a massive cultural and party scene, and as the birthplace of the 1980s
Yugoslav new wave scene, Belgrade is apparently one of the best places in south-eastern Europe to go to
carve some rug at the local discotheque, if you’re that way inclined.

Chris O’Connor (WA)

CONTACT YOUR NATIONAL THE NYP COMMITTEE ARE
YOUNG PLANNERS Chris O’Connor
Alex Frankcombe
-
-
National Convenor
WA Representative
POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 5427 Kingston ACT Deborah Buise - NT Representative
2604 Brooke Yates - ACT Representative
Tel: 02 6262 5933 Chad King - SA Representative
Fax: 02 6262 9970 Jessica Noonan - VIC Representative
Email: nypg@planning.org.au Laura Gannon - QLD Representative
Web: http://www.planning.org.au/youngplanners Tim Wilson - NSW Representative
Amanda Beyer - TAS Representative