Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Sudbury with our "Places of Sudbury" campaign! As we gear up for the highly anticipated OAA's 2023 Conference, Designing for Dignity, we've scoured the region to uncover the most exciting locations that will be showcased at the bespoke conference event in June.

Our campaign celebrates the richness and diversity of the Sudbury region, from its resource extraction and regeneration to its remoteness and unique design challenges. This year's conference will be held at the gateway to Northern Ontario, providing us with an unprecedented opportunity to collaborate with local communities and engage in meaningful conversations about how our profession can promote dignity for all. Join us as we celebrate the "Places of Sudburv" and discover what makes this region an exciting place to live, work, and play!

1. Where?
Situated at the Dynamic Earth science museum in Greater Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, the Big Nickel is an exact replica of the 1951 Canadian nickel. Constructed in 1964, it is a colossal stainless steel coin that measures 9 meters (30 feet) in diameter and weighs a remarkable 13,000 kilograms (14.33 tons). Crafted from steel plates, it is designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of Ontario. The plates are attached to an internal frame, creating the illusion of a solid coin. Visitors have the opportunity to freely explore the area beneath and around the coin, providing ample opportunities for memorable selfies.

2. What?
Sudbury's Big Nickel is a well-known symbol of the city, standing at a height of 9 meters. It is a replica of the 1951 Canadian 5-cent piece and is approximately 64,607,747 times larger than the real nickel. Initially conceived in the 1960s to promote Sudbury's mining history during the Centennial celebrations, the Big Nickel and its accompanying facilities paved the way for the internationally recognized Science North and Dynamic Earth, which are now known for promoting science education for people of all ages.

3. Why?
Sudbury's Big Nickel holds significant meaning as a representation of the city's mining history and economic contribution. This colossal replica of the 1951 Canadian 5-cent piece symbolizes Sudbury's wealth derived from nickel production and stands as an iconic attraction. Built-in 1964 as part of Sudbury's Centennial project, the Big Nickel played a pivotal role in establishing Sudbury's renowned science attractions, Science North and Dynamic Earth, which promote science education worldwide. The structure is constructed with durable stainless steel plates and showcases Sudbury's resilience to Ontario's challenging weather conditions. Altogether, Sudbury's Big Nickel stands as a powerful symbol, embodying the city's mining legacy, economic importance, and dedication to scientific knowledge and education.