Canberra builders and their projects have been recognised at the building and construction industry’s National Excellence Awards.
Brother Projects, Downer EDI Works and Manteena Commercial were recognised on the national stage, taking out the following National Awards:
- National Luxury Project Home, $1 million to $2 million — Brother Projects
- Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) National Excellence in Workplace Health and Safety Award (Commercial) — Tuggeranong Parkway by Downer EDI Work
- National Commercial/Industrial Construction Award under $5 million — Manteena Commercial for the High Commission of Samoa
Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia, said it was an outstanding result for three prestigious national awards to be heading back to the national capital.
“The depth of talent in terms of calibre, skills and innovation of the industry in the ACT has again been demonstrated. It’s no wonder Canberra’s builders are known for the quality of their contribution to the built environment and positive outcomes for clients,” Ms Wawn said.
Manteena Commercial’s work on the High Commission of Samoa was recognised as an archetype of a traditional Samoan fale in a modern setting.
The new building comprises a new chancery and an official residence. It includes typical fale elements such as sennit-woven motifs decorating the top of the concrete pillars in the reception foyer. Inside, the concrete columns provide a functional, contemporary alternative to traditional wooden columns, all the while embodying the customary and cultural significance of the natural material.
“Manteena is an icon of the industry, ACT and Canberra Region. It’s great to see they have once again delivered to the highest standard with this award winning project,” Ms Wawn said.
The Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) National Excellence in Workplace Health and Safety Award (Commercial) was taken home by Downer EDI Works for its Tuggeranong Parkway project.
“Downer EDI Works successfully placed 57,227m² of modified cape seal on 3.1km of one of Canberra’s main arterial roadways under a full road closure to ensure safety for all,” Ms Wawn said.
“To successfully achieve the project, over 130 pages of traffic control plans applied, utilising over 250 traffic control signs and 20 variable message boards. With 70 personnel on site, the project was successfully and safely delivered ahead of schedule.
“The project had no WHS or environmental incidents and had minimal disruption to the public, and as a result, a very satisfied client. Downer EDI Works are a worthy recipient of this award.”
Brother Projects won National Luxury Home $1 million to $2 million for its Yarralumla home.
“There are many exceptional features of this Brother Projects built Yarralumla home, including polished concrete floors, a masterfully crafted cantilevered staircase in the entry and the glorious two-storey, two-way stone fireplace in the internal living area,” Ms Wawn said.
“Elements including oversized stone benchtops, square set skylight tubes and mitered tiling through the bathrooms exhibit an exceptional level of attention to detail and building excellence.”
