There are few people who ever make it to “legend status”. But Professor Ed Blakely was one of them.
I first came across Ed in '08 at university, inspired by his work in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Years later I was fortunate to work alongside him.
Ed had an unrelenting passion for cities. He pushed for bold ideas: a unified governance structure for Sydney with real planning teeth, stripping back rigid zoning and FSR ratios, and planning infrastructure ahead of growth rather than scrambling after it. He was an urbanist in the truest sense, and he never stopped challenging the way things are done.
But Ed was more than his ideas. His witty humour stayed with him right until the end. He could always slip a joke into even the most serious conversations. He was as gentle and generous as he was brilliant, and quickly became a much-loved part of the extended Hoyne team.
For me, he was both a mentor and a friend. We travelled together, shared long car rides and lunches, and spoke endlessly. He taught me things I’ll carry for life; professionally and personally.
Ed leaves behind a legacy like no other. He will be missed by so many of us who had the privilege to call him a colleague, a mentor, and a friend.
Rest in peace, Ed.
You will be missed.
