Catherine Townsend's contribution to architecture and the built environment in Canberra is outstanding. Graduating from the University of Canberra in 1980, Catherine worked in many prominent regional and national architectural practices before establishing Townsend + Associates, 20 years ago this year.

Catherine has been involved in the design of many notable Canberra buildings, including One National Circuit for Prime Minister and Cabinet, Nicholls Primary School and the Space Apartments. Her interest in representation and community issues led to positions on the 2003 Bushfire Recovery Taskforce, juror on the National Portrait Gallery Design Competition and Advisor for the Canberra International Arboretum Design Competition.

Catherine is a Life Fellow of the Royal Institute of Architects and was elected President of the ACT Chapter in 2002 - the second woman to hold the position. Her re-election for a second term in 2004 is a testimony to the respect afforded to Catherine by her peers. Her contributions to the profession of architecture have been extraordinary and span practice, teaching, policy development, and advocacy.