The best and brightest in building and construction stepped off the construction site and headed to Hobart to celebrate the 2024 ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Excellence in Building and Construction Awards.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn praised the outstanding achievements of the winners across 50 award categories, applauding their talent, innovation, and dedication to excellence.
The annual three-day event culminates in announcing the country’s best builders in residential, commercial and civil construction, recognising the projects that have won them acclaim.
Four major awards were announced on the night:
- ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Apprentice of the Year
- ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Young Builder of the Year
- ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Residential Master Builder of the Year
- ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Construction Master Builder of the Year
Billbergia (NSW) Pty Ltd took out the top spot, winning the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Construction Master Builder of the Year Award for their work on 88 Walker in North Sydney.
88 Walker is North Sydney’s tallest tower at 180 meters and is a 50-level mixed-use commercial building completed in September 2023.
The iconic design includes a signature cantilever that expands floorspace from 4,000m2 to 22,800m2, partly suspended over the heritage-listed Firehouse Hotel.
With a 5-star Greenstar rating, the tower also features a double-height lobby, pedestrian pathways, and extensive facilities, making it a landmark development in North Sydney’s commercial core.
³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Residential Master Builder of the Year Havendeen won the award for their PALA home project in Queensland.
Designed by Studio Snell, PALA is a unique canal-front residence built with longevity in mind.
It features a basement, three post-tensioned concrete slabs, and 22 precast panels, the tallest reaching 12.7 metres.
Meticulous planning and craftsmanship were crucial, especially in the seamless transitions between materials and challenging junctions. The result is a cohesive design that blends natural elements with bold structural details, creating exceptional living spaces.
South Australian Matt Cates was awarded ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Young Builder of the Year for his leadership in craftsmanship, safety and innovation.
As founder of 4Life Constructions, Matt’s commitment to excellence shines through each custom home, where his meticulous quality control and hands-on approach ensure projects exceed expectations without compromise.
Matt’s dedication to safety is evidenced in his pioneering QR code system for site inductions, making protocols clear and accessible.
Beyond the build, his business acumen has driven 4Life Constructions to remarkable growth, while his strong client relationships and streamlined processes keep projects efficient and clients satisfied.
A proud Master Builder, Matt is also committed to giving back, from mentoring young talent to sharing industry insights – setting a new standard and inspiring the future of construction.
Tyler Love from New South Wales was awarded ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Apprentice of the Year for his exceptional dedication, leadership and skill as a carpentry apprentice.
Known for his outstanding work ethic and commitment to quality, he sets high standards on every project while also prioritising safety.
Tyler’s leadership shines as he guides younger apprentices, showcasing his problem-solving skills and readiness to step up in challenging situations.
At just 22, Tyler’s maturity, initiative and commitment truly set him apart, making him a well-deserving recipient of the Master Builders Australia Apprentice of the Year Award.
Quotes attributable to Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn:
“Every project and individual recognised over the weekend is a testament to the resilience and leadership that defines our industry.
“Master Builders members continue to demonstrate their ability to deliver high-quality projects that set benchmarks for innovation and excellence in the industry.
“These awards celebrate not just the structures and projects but the people behind them – builders, subcontractors, and their teams who go above and beyond to transform communities.
“Master Builders thanks the award’s platinum sponsors Toyota, CBUS, and major sponsors Shell Card, Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner, Wood Solutions, Master Builders Insurance Brokers, and Archipro.”
