Open for registrations on Thursday 11 April, the DesignBUILD Seminar and Workshop Series is set to inspire, educate and inform when the expo returns to the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre over three big days from the 8 - 10 May.

The keynote speaker is the renowned Professor Fernando Martirena, chosen for his practical approach to sustainability, including cost-effective solutions and a positive response to a changing future. His CPD accredited lecture on Wednesday 8 May will cover the changing climate, need for new building solutions, case study of eco-materials, eco-material applications and sustainable solutions.

Exhibition Manager Frank Matus said all the elements of the DesignBUILD expo had been carefully chosen to represent what the design, build and construction industries needed, including this year's line up of seminar speakers.

"Each year, we try and make the event entirely relevant to the industry's changing and challenging needs, from the exhibitors to the speakers and features. That's why in 2013 we've partnered with DesignBUILD Source, to help us deliver a seminar program that's up-to-date with the latest in the industry.

"We hope that DesignBUILD provides industry professionals, whether currently really busy or looking to gain more work, one easy place to visit and find all the latest information to help them operate as competitively and profitably as possible.

"From the Future Living with Cameron Rosen feature, to the VEK Tool Demo Stations and Innovation Alley, to the keynote speaker and the Seminar Series, DesignBUILD offers a complete industry insight under one roof," he said.

With nearly 25 seminars and workshops scheduled for DesignBUILD and over 250 exhibitors, there's sure to be something for everyone said Mr Matus.

"This year's seminar and workshop series offer a range of free and paid seminars and workshops, including CPD accredited opportunities but all speakers have been chosen for their leading thoughts, insights, information and ideas and we hope DesignBUILD seminars and workshops become a forum for shared discussion, analysis and development," he said.

A sneak peak into the 2013 DesignBUILD Seminar and Workshop Series:

Wednesday 8 May

Seminar - Kill the blue carpet by Sarah Kay from Woods Bagot

Seminar - Building resilience in a changing climate by Professor Fernando Martirena

Seminar - The Dinosaur age - How does this affect the corporate bottom line? By Bob Sharon from Green Global Consulting

Workshop - Contract pitfalls by Robert Collings from Master Builders (NSW)

Thursday 9 May

Seminar - Enough talk, it's time for action by Cameron Rosen from Australian Living

Workshop - Asbestos management and removal by Michelle Bass from MBA (NSW)

Workshop - Understanding glazing - Meeting compliance in the built environment by Anthony Gunther from Australian Institute of Architects

Friday 10 May

Seminar - How industry collaboration and innovation will give us ALL more work by Peter Barda from Australian Construction Industry Forum

Seminar - How to increase your profit margins by building sustainably by David Baggs from Global GreenTagCertTM

Seminar - Energy prices continue to rise - Be energy efficient whilst keeping comfortable by Scott Clarkson from CSR.

The full schedule for the Seminar and Workshop series and registration details will be available online from Thursday 11 April.

Please refer to the DesignBUILD website for CPD accreditation information. Entry to DesignBUILD remains FREE for trades and professionals who register online prior to the Expo or alternatively entry is $20 at the door. To find out more and to register, please visit www.designbuildexpo.com.au  or call 02 9275 9218.

- ENDS -

Katie Wilke
Square One PR
Phone: +61 (0) 3 9827 2760

E: katie.wilke@squareonepr.com.au