The Department of Finance Supplier Performance Awards have once again shone a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind some of the most impressive building projects across Western Australia. Now in its seventh year, the awards recognise the hard work and dedication of contractors and suppliers working on non-residential WA Government projects, rewarding those who consistently go above and beyond to deliver exceptional value to the community.
This year’s ceremony, which took place at the iconic His Majesty’s Theatre, was nothing short of remarkable. The venue itself was a testament to the calibre of work celebrated that evening, having recently undergone a significant restoration project. In 2023, Built – a finance and construction company – successfully delivered the reinstatement of the heritage balconies and a full refurbishment of the building. The project not only garnered the admiration of the local community but was also a finalist at the Western Australian Heritage Awards, cementing its place as an important contribution to the preservation of the state’s architectural legacy.
The 2024 Supplier Performance Awards brought together some of the best and brightest in the building industry, with winners announced across various categories. The awards celebrated a diverse range of excellence, from regional and Aboriginal contractors to the best consultants and cost managers, as well as acknowledging the most exceptional projects of the year.
The Best Contractor Award was claimed by Kimberley Green Constructions, a company that demonstrated an outstanding commitment to quality on several key projects. Among their notable achievements were HVAC and related upgrades at the Looma and Dampier Peninsula Multi-Functional Police Facilities and the North Regional TAFE Kununurra Health and Hospitality Training Centre. Their ability to manage such complex and demanding projects with precision and care earned them the prestigious recognition.
Taking home the Best Regional Contractor Award was Colab Construction, which has established itself as a consistent performer in recent years. This marks the second consecutive year that the company has been honoured, having previously won the Best Aboriginal Contractor Award in 2023. This recognition speaks volumes about Colab’s ongoing commitment to excellence, particularly in regional areas where access to quality services and skilled labour can often be a challenge.
Another standout recipient was GBSC Yurra, who won the Best Aboriginal Contractor Award for their exceptional collaboration with stakeholders and a strong focus on Aboriginal training and employment. Their efforts have made a lasting impact, not just on the projects they’ve worked on, but on the wider community as well. The company’s approach to integrating Aboriginal businesses and workforce development is a testament to the growing importance of inclusivity within the construction sector.
The Best Consultant Award went to iredale pedersen hook architects for their innovative modular solutions, which helped maximise the involvement of local and Aboriginal businesses. Their forward-thinking approach to design has not only improved the efficiency of building projects but also opened the door for greater opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry.
Ralph Beattie Bosworth, a name synonymous with cost management excellence, walked away with the Best Cost Manager Award. Their ability to effectively manage budgets while ensuring that projects meet all necessary specifications and quality standards has earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of the best in the business.
The Best Project Award was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening. The $17.7 million Perth Zoo Café and Function Centre project, a collaborative effort between head contractor Crothers Construction, consultant CHRISTOU Design Group, and cost manager Rider Levett Bucknall, stole the show. The facility, which features three dine-in and takeaway outlets, along with a coffee and wine bar, has already become a popular addition to the Perth Zoo. The judges praised the exceptional teamwork between all parties involved, highlighting their professionalism and dedication in achieving outstanding project outcomes.
The Perth Zoo Café and Function Centre project exemplifies the very essence of what these awards are about. It showcases the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the collective effort of multiple teams coming together to achieve excellence. The project managers from both the Department of Finance and Perth Zoo were also acknowledged for their vital roles in ensuring the project’s success.
Finance Minister Sue Ellery, in her remarks at the ceremony, highlighted the importance of the awards in recognising the contributions of the building and construction industry to the community. She emphasised that the winners had demonstrated their unwavering commitment to industry-leading standards and innovation, delivering outstanding outcomes on projects that benefit Western Australians across various sectors, including health, police, fire and emergency services, and cultural facilities.
Minister Ellery also acknowledged the ongoing strength of Western Australia’s economy, with a future work pipeline in excess of $42.4 billion. This represents an exciting opportunity for local and Aboriginal businesses, ensuring that there will be plenty more work available across the state in the years to come. The recognition of outstanding performers at the Supplier Performance Awards is a clear indication of the value placed on the contributions of these companies to the state’s economic and social wellbeing.
As the awards ceremony came to a close, it was clear that the future of building and construction in Western Australia is in good hands. The winners have proven their ability to rise above the competition, delivering exceptional value on projects that have a lasting impact on the community. These awards not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire others to follow in their footsteps, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the building industry.
The evening’s success is a testament to the commitment of the Department of Finance to support the growth of the building and construction sector in Western Australia. By recognising the achievements of outstanding suppliers and contractors, the awards help ensure that the state continues to develop and maintain the high-quality infrastructure necessary to support its growing population and economy.
The Supplier Performance Awards have become a fixture in the calendar of the building industry in Western Australia, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the hard work and dedication of contractors and suppliers. As the industry continues to evolve, it is clear that the standard of excellence set by this year’s winners will serve as a benchmark for future success. With a strong pipeline of projects ahead, the building and construction industry in Western Australia is poised to continue delivering exceptional outcomes for the community for many years to come.
The night’s celebrations were not only a recognition of the past two years of hard work but also a look forward to what’s to come. The winners of the 2024 Supplier Performance Awards have set the bar high, and their achievements will continue to inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence in all that they do. As the construction industry evolves, so too does the potential for collaboration, innovation, and community-focused work, all of which will drive Western Australia’s growth in the years ahead.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that these awards will continue to celebrate the outstanding contributions of those shaping the built environment in Western Australia. From regional contractors to consultants and cost managers, all of the award winners have proven that excellence is achievable, and their commitment to the craft will ensure that Western Australia remains at the forefront of building and construction in Australia.
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