Community
16 August, 2024
Tropical sanctuary best home
KORU Building Contractors have won the house of the year and display home over $800,000 for their Whitfield home – Ombra at 2B Byrnes Close – at the 2024 Far North Queensland Housing and Construction Awards.
Bryant Building Contractors also walked away with two gongs, including the sought-after project of the year award for Newman Catholic College stage 2, and best community service facilities for the Pyramid Residential Care Centre at Gordonvale.
Rounding out the major awards category was Orr Made with the prestigious building super president’s award for Vastu on Oak.
In the individual awards category, exemplary workmanship earned Freshwater designer builders’ Bailin Ware the apprentice of the year award. Fourteen-year industry veteran and mentor James Watson of Watson Constructions FNQ took home the rising star award, while passionate industry advocate Ursula Donnellan of Mark Fletcher Solid Plaster and Texture Coatings won the women in building award.
Master Builders Far North Queensland regional manager Sharon Vella said the industry had overcome some significant hurdles over the last 12 months, “but our industry has once again demonstrated its extraordinary resilience.”
“Our judging panel had a challenging but enviable job when it came to selecting our winners, with every project and award recipient putting their own stamp of excellence on their work, showcasing the passion and quality that Master Builders are renowned for,” she said.
“I congratulate each of our entrants and winners on raising the bar once again this year, and every person who contributes significantly to our industry in our region. We’re so proud to be a part of your success.”
The judges said the Queenslander-style home by Koru was a departure for the firm which “showcases a contemporary-style that embraces its environment”. They said its striking entrance connected to the rainforest on the site.
The full list is online at www.cairnslocalnews.com.au
