About Us
Our Practice
Since 1964
Six Decades of Design Excellence
Established in 1964 by respected North Queensland architect Ian Black, the firm developed into one of Townsville's most successful and highly regarded architectural practices under the direction of Don Roderick, then Ralph Power, and more recently David Butcher and David Derbyshire.
Today, RPA Architects operates from its own office in the Townsville CBD where we produce quality architectural services using the latest AutoCAD and Revit Architecture software. Our small, highly skilled team provides the full range of architectural services from concept design through to final completion.
Our portfolio spans civic, health, education, defence, and residential projects across North Queensland, from Townsville to Cairns, Mount Isa, and beyond.
Our Approach
Sustainable Tropical Design
We live and work in tropical Australia where harsh climate conditions demand intelligent design. Our buildings provide robust shelter while maintaining comfort and minimising running costs.
Orientation
Correct building orientation to capture prevailing breezes and minimise solar heat gain on east and west facades.
Shading
Deep eaves, screens, and louvres that shade walls and windows from direct tropical sun.
Insulation
High-performance insulation and sealing of the building envelope to reduce energy consumption.
Ventilation
Cross-ventilation and stack-effect design to promote natural airflow throughout the building.
Materials
Robust, cyclone-rated materials that withstand tropical conditions while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Landscape
Integration of tropical landscaping for shade, amenity, and connection to the natural environment.
Our Team
Meet the People Behind the Practice
David Derbyshire
Director
David joined the company in 1980 and was appointed Director in 1982. He is a Registered Architect in Queensland (BOAQ Reg No 1649), a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, and a Member of the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia with over 50 years of experience. David has specialised expertise in health, university, airport, and defence projects.
Michael Bradbury
Senior Technician
Michael joined RPA in 2016 with over 24 years of experience in architectural design and building construction. His expertise spans multisport stadiums, cinemas, medical centres, government fitouts, and schools. Michael is proficient in both AutoCAD and Revit Architecture including 3D modelling.
Recognition
Awards & Commendations
Biological Sciences Building Stage 1, JCU — Bronze Medal 1972
Townsville Civic Theatre Extensions — Queensland Award
Cloncurry Community Precinct — Regional Architecture Award
Dentistry Building, JCU Smithfield — Educational Architecture Award
The Cairns Institute, JCU — Sustainable Architecture Commendation