Master Builder of the Year | National 2016, 2019 | Victoria 2016, 2017, 2019
NEWS | Victoria

Commercial Regional Builder of the Year | MBAV South West Regional Building Awards

22nd June, 2022

Kane Constructions and joint venture partner Nicholson Construction (Kane Nicholson) have been awarded the Commercial Regional Builder of the Year award at the 2022 Master Builders Victoria South West Regional Building Awards for the impressive Ballarat GovHub project.

Ballarat GovHub showcases exceptional craftsmanship and the highest standard of excellence in construction.

Ballarat GovHub's primary structure is constructed from mass-engineered timber. The timber close to 3000m3 used for the project was sourced from a sustainable fast growth forest.

The timber used for the project was calculated to reduce embodied emissions by 54% compared to a concrete structure. Other key features of the building include a glass conservatory, a reconstructed lower hall for multi-purpose use, a new civic plaza, a minimum 5 Star Green Star design rating for both the base building and fit-out, two-level basement car parking and end-of-trip facilities.

The building is spectacular, however, the contribution this project has had on employment in regional Victoria is equally impressive:

  • 75% of all workers on site lived in regional Victoria
  • 25% of all workers were based within 10km of the project, and 40% were within 75km
  • 50,000 hours were worked by new apprentices and trainees

Kane Nicholson is extremely thankful for the successful and strong working relationship formed with our client Development Victoria, Regional Development Victoria, Project Manager/Superintendent Gallagher Jeffs, and the consultant team consisting of Wardle, AECOM, McKenzie Building Surveyors, ASPECT Studios and Geyer.

Wardle architects’ stunning design of the Ballarat GovHub was recognised in the Commercial Architecture Category at the 2022 Victorian Architecture awards and also commended by judges in the sustainable architecture award.

The project’s completion is a significant milestone for Ballarat, and the result is a modern and sustainable workplace that sets a new standard for office accommodation.