4 August 2023
More than 30 builders, projects, and individuals were recognised at the Master Builders Far North Queensland 2023 Housing & Construction Awards held at the Cairns Convention Centre on Friday, 4 August.
Entrants delighted the judging panel with the calibre of their workmanship, superb finishes and innovation in construction.
The Oceana Residence saw Nathan Verri win the coveted GMA Certification Group House of the Year, as well as the Individual Home from $1 million up to $2 million award.
This four-bedroom home utilises open space and clean lines to create an inviting space. The use of timber and glass creates a seamless transition between the living and outdoor areas of this unique residence. The stylish design of Oceana Residence delivers incredible craftsmanship and impeccable attention to detail.
Kewarra Beach home, Poolwood earned Langrell Constructions the prestigious BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award. Boasting beautiful living spaces, the building incorporates landscaping into the home in a way that is rarely seen, showcasing superb workmanship.
The St Mary’s Catholic College Block M Redevelopment project by Hansen Yuncken won the Refurbishment/Renovation over $5 million category and claimed the sought-after Project of the Year award.
The impressive project entailed the demolition of existing buildings, extending the gym and staff room, and new building works. A highlight of design and innovation, this development maintains the aesthetic of the existing buildings and is a benchmark facility within the Diocese of Cairns.
Vis Constructions cemented its status as a winning team, picking up Best Residential Swimming Pool and Home Renovation Project over $1 million for Unique Renovation at Edge Hill project.
They also took home trophies for best Education Facilities up to $10 million for the Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure and the Community Accommodation for Specialist Disability, Aged Care and Nursing Homes award for Gordonvale Community Care Unit Complex.
Industry individuals were recognised on the night with Luke Crees from Hiles Construction being awarded BUSY Skills Apprentice of the Year and Sheldon Powe-Hobbs from Cairns Custom Bathrooms taking the Rising Star title. Heidi Jonsson from Norsafe claimed the Women in Building crown.
Master Builders’ Far North Queensland Regional Manager, Sharon Vella, congratulated all the winners across the 36 categories.
“From spectacular retail spaces and innovative educational facilities to stylish renovations, villas and luxury hideaways, this year’s entries impressed the judges,” she said.
“It’s a true testament to the quality of building that happens in and around the region.
“No matter whether our 2023 entrants have taken an Award home or not, they're in esteemed company and a valued part of why Master Builders are so widely trusted and respected,” she said
Major winners
Ultra-modern home delivers beautiful living spaces
Winner of the 2023 Far North Queensland BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award – Poolwood by Langrell Constructions
This Kewarra Beach home delivers beautiful living spaces with a tangible connectedness to the outdoors.
A single-level home, Poolwood combines traditional white with pops of black and grey to accentuate the open-plan design. This is an ultra-modern home of spacious proportions and highlights the builder’s attention to detail and overall craftsmanship.
The project is tied together with polished concrete floors and all spaces are unique, light-filled and purposeful.
The quality of workmanship is evident throughout the home in the smallest details and seamless design.
Judges’ comments
“Poolwood has good natural light and boasts integrated living spaces.”
“This home has a good feel, very homely.”
“High praise for Langrell Constructions quality finishes and polished concrete.”
College’s innovative design scores top marks
Winner of the 2023 Far North Queensland Project of the Year – St Mary’s Catholic College Block M Redevelopment by Hansen Yuncken
St Mary’s Catholic College’s existing building was significantly altered and extended to create over 3,000 square metres of flexible teaching space on two levels. The functional areas include a large multipurpose hall with a seated capacity of 1,200 people to act as the focal point of the college community and culture. The Mujum Mundu lecture theatre opens onto the hall and provides seating for an additional 200 people.
Other key spaces include instrumental practice rooms, servery, lobby and associated amenities. State-of-the-art audio-visual services are seamlessly integrated throughout. The workmanship is visible in the small details and the unique and challenging design. With schooling continuing during the construction organisation, workmanship and safety were at the forefront of this project.
Judges’ comments
“This is a sophisticated finish, a complicated build in its own right, made much harder by the material shortages.”
“A very varied mix of specialised finishes and materials.”
Stylish Port Douglas home with a sense of elegance and class
Winner of the 2023 Far North Queensland GMA Certification Group House of the Year – Oceana Residence by Nathan Verri
Located amidst the stunning estate of Beach Front Mirage, this large, modern, single-storey, four-bedroom, four-bathroom home with a private swimming pool, features multiple indoor and outdoor living areas that capture the surrounding breezes, natural light and leafy views.
The strategic use of wooden panelling throughout the home creates unique privacy solutions without losing the natural light and openness of the spaces.
This open transitional contemporary design complements tropical and family living.
Judges’ comments
“A grand home with an open layout and feel and luxurious high-end finishes throughout.”
“The layout works well for the purpose of the house, with all rooms looking onto the pool and outdoor area to ensure privacy from surrounding homes.”
“There is a high level of attention to detail in all aspects of the build.”
Major Sponsors
