WoodSolutions is proud to sponsor the Master Builders National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards, an event that celebrates Australia’s best builders and their contributions to the construction industry. This prestigious event highlights achievements across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
The WoodSolutions program is resourced by Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA), a not-for-profit organisation committed to driving demand for and enhancing the value of wood products. Through its free resources, expert guidance, and practical solutions, WoodSolutions helps professionals across the building and design sectors embrace timber as a sustainable and innovative choice across the built environment.
As part of its commitment to sustainability in the built environment, WoodSolutions supports three award categories: the Sustainable Residential Building Award, the Sustainable Commercial Building Award, and the National Contract Home Award ($750,000 to $1 million). These categories spotlight innovative practices in sustainable design, material use, and construction processes that are transforming the built environment. By sponsoring these awards, WoodSolutions aligns its mission of increasing demand for innovative, sustainable, and competitive timber products with its dedication to environmental stewardship and industry advancement.
Celebrating and connecting with builders
The Awards provide a platform for professionals to exchange ideas and showcase excellence, fostering education and innovation—values that WoodSolutions champions through its extensive free resources, including technical guides, webinars, and the WoodSolutions Campus for self-paced learning.
Attending this event also allowed the WoodSolutions Timber Framing Campaign Manager, Chris Briggs, to engage directly with the design and construction community, helping builders and designers discover the versatile and sustainable potential of timber.
“This collaboration strengthens the industry's commitment to creating structures that are not only functional but environmentally responsible,” said Briggs.
“The use of timber in these winning projects is apparent and the ways the builders are incorporating it into the structures and the aesthetic design details is growing,” Briggs continued. “I think these projects really celebrate the value of choosing wood in our frames and recognising how good it makes us feel to occupy the spaces where wood surrounds us.”
WoodSolutions National Sustainability Residential Building Award
The WoodSolutions National Sustainability Residential Building Award went to Davies Construction in Tasmania. This sustainability conscious project incorporates a compact design and energy-efficient construction that minimises heating requirements. Davies Construction applied Passivhaus principles for the first time, demonstrating a commitment to planet-focused building methods. Utilising Trombe walls and materials with high thermal mass, it effectively generates and retains heat. The studio operates as a net-positive energy system, producing its own power and feeding surplus electricity back to the grid. Materials, finishes, and systems were carefully chosen for their durability, low maintenance needs, and environmental sustainability. Water efficiency is addressed through innovative storage solutions and resource-saving fittings.
This project not only exemplifies sustainability but also acts as an educational platform, reflecting the company's dedication to advancing sustainable construction practices.
WoodSolutions National Contract Home ($750,000 to $1 million)
The WoodSolutions National Contract Home ($750,000 to $1 million) winner was Scott Salisbury Homes from South Australia. This exquisite design by Scott Salisbury Homes showcases a remarkable blend of innovative design, superior craftsmanship, and impeccable quality. The residence’s striking curved façade invites you into a meticulously designed interior where every element is thoughtfully executed with wood floors and accents throughout.
Curved architectural elements merge functionality with aesthetic appeal. Designed to harmonise the outside and inside living spaces, this project epitomises sophistication.
WoodSolutions National Sustainability in a Commercial Building Award
Finally, the WoodSolutions National Sustainability in a Commercial Building Award was given to Fairbrother Construction for another big win out of Tasmania. Through innovative collaboration and early contractor involvement, Fairbrother has significantly advanced the sustainability of the River’s Edge project at the University of Tasmania Inveresk Campus, achieving an impressive 32% reduction in embodied carbon compared to conventional construction methods.
This achievement is attributed to a comprehensive range of strategies, including the recycling of steel gas pipes for driven piles, minimising the use of applied finishes, and prioritising locally sourced materials. Key materials such as carbon-neutral bricks, responsibly sourced timber, and other environmentally sustainable products have been integral to the project’s success. The scale and quality of these initiatives position the River’s Edge project as a pioneering example of sustainable building practices, setting a new benchmark for reducing environmental impact in the construction industry.
Congratulations to the winners at the MBA National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards
WoodSolutions extends congratulations to Davies Construction, Scott Salisbury Homes, and Fairbrother Construction for their remarkable achievements at the Master Builders National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards. These award-winning projects exemplify the integration of innovative design, sustainable materials, and outstanding craftsmanship, setting a high standard for the industry.
As a proud sponsor of these awards, WoodSolutions is honoured to celebrate the creativity and dedication demonstrated by these companies. Their exceptional work not only elevates industry practices but also inspires the broader design and construction community to embrace sustainable building solutions.
Briggs continued, “Having our Renewable Timber Framing campaign front in centre for the people who love and work with wood every day was an honour.”
“I am looking forward to connecting with our winners and seeing the photos of these new wood trophies with WoodSolutions logos on their bookcases. Together, we continue to shape a built environment that is both innovative and environmentally responsible.”