They’re leaders in their respective fields. They’re from universities, industry associations and architecture firms, and they know what sustainable buildings look like. They are world-class industry experts and world-class judges, and will ensure that only the country’s most pioneering green projects have made the final cut.
Principal, Carter Williamson Architects
In 2023, Ben was awarded the National Emerging Architect Prize for his outstanding contribution to architectural practice, education, design excellence, and community involvement. This is evidenced through his involvement as a founding member of Save Our Sirius, and Architecture With Pride. Ben is also a recipient of the 2019 Dulux Study Tour Prize, the 2020 Adrian Ashton Prize for Architectural Culture and Literature.
Significant recent Carter Williamson projects by Ben include the award-winning Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre for Blacktown City Council, the seductive Concrete Blonde, and a sculptural waterfront home in Birchgrove in Sydney’s Inner West.
Founding Director, Envirotecture
Australia
Dick Clarke, with 45 years of experience, is the principal of Envirotecture, specialising in sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings.
He has held significant roles in various sustainability organisations and authored key publications like the “Your Home” series.
Sustainability Lead, Deicke Richards
Dominika is a registered architect and Sustainability Lead at Deicke Richards, with experience across affordable housing, education, health and community projects. She champions socially and ecologically sustainable design, co-chairs the AIA Qld Climate and Sustainability Action Group, facilitates the Living Design Series, and actively contributes to industry forums and climate initiatives.
Green Star Program Lead, Green Building Council of Australia
Gabrielle Pavicic is Green Star Program Lead at the Green Building Council of Australia, specialising in sustainable design across the built environment. With a background in architecture and interiors, she leads major rating tools and national initiatives, and was named Emerging Sustainable Architect/Designer at the 2025 Sustainability Awards
Sustainability Consultant, Steensen Varming
Gagandeep Jadhav is a Sustainability Consultant at Steensen Varming based in Sydney. He works closely with architects, engineers and developers to deliver high-performance, environmentally responsible buildings. Gagandeep specialises in ESD strategies, building performance and green building certifications. His work focuses on integrating practical, evidence-based sustainability solutions into the design process to achieve meaningful environmental outcomes.
Architect and Certified Passivhaus Designer, DJRD Architects
Heather McCabe is an Architect and Certified Passivhaus Designer at DJRD Architects in Sydney. Heather is leading the development of DJRD’s Sustainability Action Plan and is implementing project sustainability strategies across the practice. Heather has previously served as a Board Member for the Australian Passivhaus Association and is currently involved with the Australian Architects Declare Education team.
Director, Positive Footprints
Jeremy Spencer has been a registered builder and director at Positive Footprints for nearly 20 years. He is an advocate for sustainable design and construction and serves on multiple industry boards.
Architect & Director, Mahalath Halperin Architects
Mahalath Halperin, FRAIA, has managed her architectural practice since the 1990s, focusing on sustainable and liveable designs. She also conducts environmental audits and has authored various publications, including children’s books.
General Manager, Blaise Building Services
Mick Paterson is a licensed builder with over 30 years of experience across four countries. He specialises in sustainable construction, Passive House, and creating healthy, high-performance buildings. Mick’s passion for green building began over two decades ago, leading to diverse residential and commercial work, including collaborations with Passive House organisations like Indwell and Invisij in Canada. He is currently the General Manager of Blaise Building Services, a Passive House-only builder based in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Mick is committed to crafting spaces that are both environmentally responsible and conducive to well-being.
Director, Furtado Sullivan
Sandra is co-founder of Furtado Sullivan, a Sydney architecture studio known for merging large-scale efficiency with bespoke design. She has contributed to major projects including Barangaroo and One Circular Quay. Sandra excels in navigating urban complexity, using holistic design thinking and multidisciplinary collaboration to deliver creative, sustainable outcomes.
Founding Director, Green Sheep Collective
Shae Parker McCashen is the founding director of Green Sheep Collective, a Melbourne-based practice focused on sustainable, community-driven design. With over 24 years of industry experience, she is a passionate advocate for passive solar design, detail-oriented architecture and environmental responsibility. Shae regularly contributes to industry discourse through writing, speaking, and leadership roles within the architectural community.