Wintergarden earns national acclaim

Bundaberg's Wintergarden Community Hub is once again in the national spotlight as it prepares to compete among Australia's best at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards this month.

The nomination comes on the heels of a standout performance at the Master Builders Queensland Awards, where local firm Murchie Constructions secured top honours in the Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation ($5 million-$15 million) category.

It marks yet another achievement for the revitalised landmark, which earlier this year received national recognition when architect Tomas O'Malley and his team claimed the Regional Project of the Year at the Central Queensland Regional Architecture Awards.

First opened in 1929 as a grand theatre, the historic Wintergarden building has served many purposes throughout its long life. Its latest chapter began after a major redevelopment by Bundaberg Regional Council in 2022, transforming the treasured site into a modern, community-focused facility now home to Bridges Health and Community Care.

Murchie Constructions delivered the extensive works, carefully blending the building's heritage character with contemporary design. Director Andrew Murchie said the recent accolades were a proud moment for the company and the broader project team.

"As a local contractor, it has been extremely rewarding to work on such an iconic building in our region," he said.
"Given its age, the project certainly had its challenges, but through close collaboration we were able to find practical solutions every step of the way.

"We prioritise working with Bundaberg-based subcontractors and suppliers, and with Empire Engineering as the structural engineer, the majority of our project team was proudly local.

"We're delighted to now have this project among our portfolio of landmark buildings that continue to support and shape our community."

Master Builders Deputy CEO and Awards Ambassador Sue-Ann Fresneda said this year's winners and finalists represented the remarkable talent driving Queensland's construction industry forward.

"The stories behind our Individual Award winners show how diverse and dynamic our industry has become," she said.
"These are the people shaping the future of building in Queensland, and I couldn't be prouder."

Eligible Queensland winners will now progress to the national awards, set to take place in Adelaide on 28 November.

"Queensland led the country last year with 13 national wins," Ms Fresneda said.
"With the strength of this year's field, we're optimistic about another impressive result."