Housing & Construction Awards 2018 Excellence in Building Downs & Western

CURLY'S SHOT

Welcome from Master Builders Queensland

It is with great honourthat Iwelcome you to the 2018 winners’ magazine

WHEN Ithink back over the years of Master Builders Housing &Construction award ceremonies, Isee smiling, excited faces and champagne glasses clinking as success and hard work is celebrated.

The steel caps and hi-vis arestowed away,the gala gowns and dinner coats dusted, shoes shined and the daily grind put on hold for anight of celebration Colleagues, contractors and connections come together as we celebrate those at the forefront of building innovationand quality craftsmanship.

Master Builders Housing &Construction Awards cater for entrants ranging from apprentices to trade contractors and small family businesses, to the biggest names in the building and construction industry

The calibreofentries in this year’s awards program has been second to none and highlights the exceptional skills and craftsmanship of Downs &Western Master Builders

Overthe pastfew months, our panel of judges have attended each entrant’s property and made athorough assessment against alist of strict criteria

This includes qualityofworkmanship, degree of construction difficultly,external appeal, siting and aspect, along with amenities and aesthetics.

The judges then returned to our Toowoomba headquarterstodeliberate. Over aperiod of painstaking days, they compiled alist of finalists and, fter much passionate discussionand sometimes, debate, one winnerwas selected for each category.

Across the board, the feedback from our judges has noted the high calibreofentrants in the Downs & Western region and Ithank those builders for their stellar

work in making our judges’ job adifficult one.

Each of our entrants has put their business, productand workmanship under scrutiny as part of an extremely competitive process.Their work, whether awinner this year or not, is acredit to the unwavering quality and craftsmanship of aMaster Builder

Since 1882, MasterBuildershas been the voice of the industry,representing the interests of our members and the broader industry.Weare the peak body of practical and relevant information to the industry and consumers.

We have helped thousandsofbuilders and trade contractors to operate professional and profitable businesses, deliveringsuperior quality and craftsmanship.

The Downs &WesternHousing &Construction Awards carry along and distinguished history of showcasing the absolute best in the industry,and the level of competition among this year’s entrants is unsurpassed.

If you areconsidering anew build or renovation, please consider this book ashowcase of the incredible work that can be achievedwhen choosing aMaster Builder.Get in touch with one of the award-winning builders featured here, or utilise our Find aMaster Builder search at www.mbqld.com.au. This search will populate alist of properly licensed contractors who match your unique criteria and building needs.

On behalf of Master Builders, thank you for your remarkable work and congratulations on your deserving win. Ithank you for supporting the 2018 Housing & Construction Awards program.

Linda Rosengreen Master Builders Downs& Western Regional Manager

‘‘ “The calibre of entries in this year’s awards program has been second to none and highlights the exceptional skills and craftsmanship of Downs &Western Master Builders.”

DID you see the Master Builders ad campaignon television recently? It featured agentleman trying to read his morning paper,but his orange juice kept slidingdown the counter?

We really wanted to get you thinking about who you use for your renovations or new builds and encourage you to avoid regrettingitlater,byopting for aMaster Builder from the get go.

Making the choice to build or renovate ahome can be one of the biggest and most rewarding investments of your life, so it’s important to get it right and set a good foundationfor your build.

And, while thereisnodoubt alaundry list of decisions for you to makealong the way,doing your homework to find the right builder for your needs shouldbeyour top priority

When Master Builders CEOGrant Galvin chose to build anew home recently,beyond anything else, he knew he wanted the peace of mind of building with a MasterBuilder

But it’s not always easy to know who is and isn’t a MasterBuilder.That’s why our team at Master Builders

Thebenefitsof building with aMaster

have taken the hard work and stress out of your search with our Find aMasterBuilder search –it’s truly brilliant.

We know from customer feedback that,when peopleare looking to build or renovate, they want the most up-to-date and reliable information at their fingertips, but sometimes that can be hard to find.

Throughthe promotion of our television campaign, the Find aMaster Builder search trafficincreased 500% as would-be home buildersand renovators rejoiced in the knowledge therewas an easy to use tool to cut through the clutterand find the right builder for their needs.

The search is free and we urge you to try it out for yourself.Ifyou head to the Master Builders website, you’ll see the Find aMaster Builder search handyon our homepage. Here, you enter afew details about what you’relooking for and whereyou live, and alist of relevant builders and trade contractors will be populated for you.

By choosing aMaster Builder,you build peace of mind that you’ve chosen aquality,trusted and properly

licensed contractor.Master Builder’s members complete morethan 80 per cent of building work in Queensland, so you’ll knowthat wherever you live, there’ll be aquality Master Builder therefor you.

After you test out the search and find alist of builders, head to your nearest Master Buildersdisplay village and meet with their home experts in person.

For those in the Toowoombaregion, we’vegot a number located in the south east corner Why not makeaday of it?

Youwill havethe opportunity to walk through a full-scale display home.And you can check for yourself the quality of the build and get afeel for what features, materials and colour you do and don’t like.

Even if you arelooking to do arenovation, the display village will showcasethe latest trends and give you endless inspiration for whatever project you are ready to takeon.

To find the right builder for your home, or for more information on Master Builder display village, visit mbqld.com.auorcall 1300 30 50 10 andfind aMaster Builder foryour next building job.

Master Builders Downs &Western Winners2018

Master Builders congratulates this year’s winners who have demonstrated excellence acrossawide range of categories

Construction

Health Facilitiesupto$20 million

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders

St Michael’sRehabilitation Ward, St Vincent’s Private Hospital

Health Facilitiesover $20 million

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders

Refurbishment, St Vincent’s Private Hospital Education Facilities up to $10 million

Northbuild Construction QLD Pty Ltd Highfields Gardens ChildcareCentre

SportingFacilities PalmlakeWorks Pty Ltd

Pinnacle Country Club Community Service Facilities Betros Constructions Pty Ltd

Charley’s Place Retail Facilities up to $5 million

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders

Highfields 7-Eleven Retail Facilities over $5 million

MainbraceConstructions (QLD) Pty Limited Home Co.

Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million Ruby Developments Pty Ltd Living GemsCountry Club Commercial Building up to $5 million

Valdal Projects Pty Ltd

Oakvale ChildcareCentre Commercial Building $5 million –$50 million

Tomkins Commercial &Industrial Builders Pty Ltd

JK Murray Library,University of Queensland Industrial Building over $5 million Badge Constructions (QLD) Pty Ltd

Darwalla Hatchery Community Accommodationfor Aged Care and NursingHomes

Paynters Pty Ltd

Carramar Aged Care Refurbishment/Renovation up to $750,000

Askonstructions Pty Ltd

Office and Showrooms, Hotondo Homes Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000

FK Gardner and Sons Pty Ltd

Kingaroy Courthouse

Excellence in Energy Efficiency and Environmental Management

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders Refurbishment, St Vincent’s Private Hospital Excellence in WorkplaceHealth &Safety

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders Refurbishment, St Vincent’s Private Hospital Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year

PCP SolutionsPty Ltd

Discretionary- Best HeritageListed Renovation Northbuild Construction QLD Pty Ltd

Annex and Auditorium, City Hall

Housing

Display Home $251,000 –$350,000 Askonstructions Pty Ltd

Essence Display Home

Display Home $351,000–$450,000 Venchris ConstructionsPty Ltd ‘Ebony’

Individual Home up to $250,000 Venchris Constructions Pty Ltd ‘Carissa’

Individual Home $251,000 –$350,000 Swish Design &Construct Pty Ltd Sander House

Individual Home $351,000 –$450,000 Lavish Constructions Pty Ltd

SiennaHouse

Individual Home $451,000 –$550,000 JankeConstructions Pty Ltd Biddeston

Individual Home $551,000 –$650,000

BBC QLD Pty Ltd

Hi-Winds House

Individual Home $651,000– $750,000 Winzim Investments Pty Ltd T/A Mark Winter Constructions

Johnson House

Individual Home $751,000 -$950,000

JankeConstructions Pty Ltd

Archer House

Individual Home $1.26 million –$2million

DownsDesignerHomes Pty Ltd

Bogong Court

Individual Home over $2 million

DownsDesignerHomes Pty Ltd

Kara View Court

Best Use of Sloping Sites

NJP Carpentry Pty Ltd

Mockridge

Home Renovation/Remodelling Projectupto $275,000

AKT Builders Pty Ltd

Performance Building Group

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project$276,000 –$575,000

Urbane Build Pty Ltd

Cavell Street

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project$576,000 –$1million

Valdal Projects Pty Ltd

Mary Street

Medium Density up to 3Storeys– 2to5Dwellings

DJ Buckley Builders Pty Ltd CurtisStreet

Medium Density up to 3storeys –over 5 Dwellings

JankeConstructions Pty Ltd

Arthur Street

Lifestyle Housing for High Care Needs, Disabledand Seniors Award

Askconstructions Pty Ltd

Blair Lifestyle Home

Excellence in Sustainable Living Winzim Investments Pty Ltd T/A Mark Winter Constructions

Baines House

Residential Trade Contractor of the Year Southern Stars Air Conditioning Pty Ltd Kara View Court

Trade Contractor /Specialty

BestResidentialBathroom Winzim Investments Pty Ltd T/A Mark Winter Constructions

Johnson House

BestResidentialKitchen Weston Kitchens &Bathrooms Pty Ltd Carlton House BestResidentialSwimming Pool

Downs Designer Homes Kara View Court

Individual Apprentice of the Year

Chelsea Hayward Golden West Apprenticeships Limited

Rising Star Nelson Janke

JankeConstructions Pty Ltd Women In Building Sue Baldwin PalmlakeWorksPty Ltd Memorial Award

Darren Buckley DJ Buckley Builders Pty Ltd

Major President’s Award SwishDesign &Construct Pty Ltd Sander House Project of the Year

JHutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders Refurbishment, St Vincent’s Private Hospital House of the Year

Downs Designer Homes Kara View Court

PHOTOS: CURLY'S SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY,BIG

HOUSE,

As aresult, this impressive lifestyle residence draws on architecturefromthe great European Villas.

With imported Spanish roof tiles, exceptional lines, decorative corbels, concealed downpipes, and a detailed chimney,this propertyisamasterpiece from every angle.

Internally,asexternally,this house is awonder to behold. Agrand Tasmanian Oak staircase links the lower floor to the living areas and the main entry features a8.5 metrehigh ‘feature tower’ which includes an impressive three tiered crystal chandelier and large arched windows.

The house boasts alift, gymnasium, games room, movie theatre, and afour car garage. The master bedroom is situated in aseparatewing, and features an immense dressing room, palatial ensuite, linen chute, double vanity and access to the rooftop terrace

Asecond workingkitchenisintegrated just off the main designer kitchen,the latter overlookingthe living and dining areas. Both kitchenshave easy access to the large coveredalfresco area, which overlooks the pool, spa, extra large garden,and stunningviews of Tabletop Mountain.

DownsDesigner Homes wins House of theYear

The crown jewel of Downs Designer Homes’ 2018 projects, Kara View Court represents the very best in quality design, construction, and fine finishes.

The architect placed great emphasis on space materials and detail when designing this luxurious north-facing home

The sheer scale and detail of the projectiswhat made KaraView Court special

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Hutchinson Builders pockets Projectofthe Year award

The project demonstrated the capability of the HutchinsonBuilders’

Toowoomba team to complete highly complex construction jobs to exceptionally high standards

Redeveloping St Vincent’s Hospital was ahighly complex design and constructproject involving new building areas, demolition, asbestos removal, and refurbishingand upgrading of essential hospital services, whilst working in alive hospital environment.

Hutchinson Builders planned extensive services relocation and outages weeks in advance,tominimise any disruptiontothe hospital. Once these services wererelocated, the redevelopment could commence This required the tunnelling of a30T excavator under the operational maternity ward to the inner courtyard, demolition of suspended decks and under-croft areas to pave the way for the new operating theatres,

asbestos removal, and rectification of firepenetrations.

The works werecarried out overa5000sq mbuilding footprint, and over five levels of the hospital

The basement carpark made way for the new commercial hospital kitchen, anew chapel was added to the building, along with executiveoffice suites, recovery and admittance suites, staff facilities, storerooms, two brand new lifts, and much more.

The highlight of the project was the operating theatres, one of which includes medical imaging equipment which is the first of its kind to be installedinthe southern hemisphere.Hospitalstaff wereoperating in the theatres within 48 hours after practical completion.

PHOTOS: SYD OWEN

Swish Design& Constructtakes home thePresident’s Award

House’

This functional home includes value for money inclusions and has aunique street appeal perfect for the young family

Alarge main bedroom features awalk in robe with plentyofspace and awell appointed ensuite. The other three bedrooms areofgood size, providing freedomof

movement for the kids. The activityroomfunctions as asecond living room and adjoins two of the bedrooms.

Aseparate study at the front of the house is perfect for office work, or children’s homework. The practical designer kitchen and walk in scullery overlooks the

L-shaped living/diningarea, opening onto the outdoor area with a90degree corner stacker door

This hometicks all the boxes—it’s functional, aesthetically pleasing, and incorporatessome of he best value for money finishes and inclusions in the region.

PHOTOS:

Award-winning

Fromanearly age, Damien Weeks was exposedto the building industry…and he lovedit.

His young mind eagerly absorbed everythingaround him –watching tradesmen intently and storingthat expert knowledge away

But, with akeen eye for design, Damien thought his futurewould unfold sitting in front of an architectural drawingboard.

Likeall good plans, that idea got ‘tweaked’ abit and Damien’s flair for carpentryand attention to detail deliveredhim to the construction game.

Having completed his apprenticeship, he soon moved into aforeman’s role before‘biting the bullet’ and going into business for himself

That decision,five years ago, saw BBC QLD cometo life and he and wife Emily have turnedtheir early dreams into one of the most respected and innovative building companies in the region.

“Hopefully Ibring afresh, modern eye to design,” Damienreflects.

“When Isee plans, Ican quickly see if thereare any faults at the paper stage and then we can adjust the plans to get abetteroutcome.”

“Wewant to makeaclient’s ideas come to life,” Emily adds. “And we enjoy workingtogether to help them visualise their finished designs.”

Damien predominantlyworked the commercial side of construction in the earlydays, but adhering to tight

deadlines and corporate expectations has held him in good stead in their ever-growing work in the domestic building arena.

BBC QLD has worked right across Queensland, working on everythingfromhospitals to libraries, child carecentres to police stations and even on Toowoomba’s own City Hall.

But, that hasn’t restrictedtheir flair for the creative with spectacular housing, townhousesand innovative renovations all proudly showcased in their construction portfolio.

They also contract to other builders.

With ateam of 15,they havethe manpower and a strong bond with long-lastingtradies who have come

through the BBC QLD system.

“Wedefinitely have an expectation of our tradies,” Damiensaid. “Wewant people who can problem solve and think on their feet to assist our customers.”

“Ifyou’rethinking outside the squareand are prepared to listen to all sides, you’regoing to come up with better solutions,” Emily adds.

“I’ve had apprentices or school-based workers come up with agreat idea. It’s all about listening to the client and staying open-minded,” Damien said.

While many builders areproud of their signature designs, Damien and Emily arehappy to let their keen eye create somethingtruly special for their clients.

“I don’twant to have a‘style’,” Damien declares. “I want my builds to be ‘one-offs’ that give the wow factor and reflect the personality of the home owner.”

While client satisfactionisparamount to the BBC

QLD team, Damienand Emily agree that it goes far beyond just atick of approval from the homeowner

“Wewant everyone who walks into that home (or unit) to be blownaway,” Emily said.“We want to impress them as much as the owner.”

And, if you’rethinking of building, Damienhas one simple piece of advice (other than working out a conservative budget).

“Having alist of things you don’t want is as important as alist of what you do,” he explains. “Bybeingable to rule out design layouts, certain fittings or colours –it allows us to concentrate on creating ahouse plan that meets your expectations right from the start.

“And with the millions of pages on Pinterest and Instagram available, it’s never been easier to put together ascrapbook of ideas that we tweak to makeittruely your own –aone-off piece right in your new home.”

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Thehands-onbuilder

Haydock has been in the construction industry for about 13 years, the last six of which he’s been at the helm of Lavish Constructions.

one thing is clear upon meetingTom, it’s that he’s in this business for the love of creating. “I’ve always enjoyed searching for different methods and products and compiling them into aprojectour clients can call a home,but seeing how happy that makes them, is by far the best part,” he said. He startedwith acarpentry apprenticeshipinhigh school and followed his dream all the way to where he is today,with the 2018 Master Builder Individual Home ($351,000 -$450,000) award in the bag for the display home at 1Sienna Drive, Glenvale. He won the 2017 Commercial Contractor of the Year award for the commercial fit-outs he’d done, but said he decided to focus moreonresidential custom builds this year and in future. “The things Ilike

doing most, arecustom new builds, and working from the design stage through to completion. I’d much rather be building something that’s alittle more customised for each client.” For Tom, winning another award makes it all worth it and motivates him to keep doing what he loves, and to try even harderto build homes his clients will be happy with.

He goes to great lengths to ensurehis clients know what’s going on. “Over the last 12 to 18 months, I’ve introducedanonline system.Myclients have an onlineportal to their project, wherethey can log in and see everything including their financials, documents,selections, and up-to-date photos of the job.” This gives the client total transparency and complete control over the project. Tom’s contractors and employees can also access this system, to see the schedule for the project and to knowwhen they’re required to be on site, ensuring things run smoothly and giving the client peace of mind.

Tomsays what sets him apart,istrust. Thereare many horrorstories out thereofclients who’ve had bad experiences with their builders,but Tomsays he builds arelationship of trust with his clients. “Most builders talk about trust, but only afew deliver in termsoforganisation and tranparency.I’m the owner the director and the builder.I’m the guy whose licence is on the line every day.Iwant everything to be perfect, not only because I’mpassionate about what Ido, but also beacuse I’mtotally invested in everyclient,” he said. Tomisonsite on every job he has going every day,tomakesurethe project is running smoothly

When thinking of engagingabuilder,said Tom, give them acall and get to know your builder on a personal level. “If you trust the builder from the start, working together from start to finish, you walk out as friends, not just builder and client.”

THINKING OF BUILDING?

With Lavish Constructions’ online portal, clients have up-to-date access to their project

PHOTOS: CURL Y'S SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY

Multiple awards for DownsDesigner Homes

Heentered his apprenticeship in 1977 and started Downs Designer Homesin1990. Jeff Bubeck has been building homes for 28 yearsand has won numerous awards in this time.

At Downs Designer Homes, Jeff and his team do everythingresidential related —fromrenovations,to extensions and new builds. “Wesay,‘any budget, any terrain, any style’. We do all homes, from entry homes to luxurious mansions,” said Jeff

At the Master Builders Awards this year,Downs Designer Homes received four moreawards for two of their project homes. The Kara View Court property fetched not only the awards for the Best Individual Home (over $2 million) and Best ResidentialSwimming Pool, but also the House of the Year award. The property at Bogong Court in Highfields received the award for Best Individual Home($1.26 -$2 million).

“Considering the high standard of localbuilding, to win is amajorachievement. It’s recognition for the hard work put in by the trades throughout the year and it showcases their skills.It’s as much areward for them as for me,” said Jeff,who credits the longevity of his trades and employees with muchofhis success “Some of my trades havebeen with me for over 20 years, and the quality of their work is consistently high.”

Jeff believes the sheer scale and detail of the project, is what made the House of the Year build at Kara View Court special. Fromsourcing materials from overseas to makethe home moreunique and authentic, to building on asloping site, the project was challenging but also very rewarding, he explained.

Jeff is involved in every build and clients deal directly with him. “I treat every homeasifit’s my own.”

Exceptional quality and breathtakingdesign comes standardregardless of project size

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ThePinnacle of winningfor Palm Lake Resort

Fromaninnovative housing park in Victoria to opulent and decadentmulti-million dollar clubhouses and award-winning architecturally designed homes in the over50’s lifestyle sector Palm LakeResort continually raises the benchmark over 40 successful years in business.

Winning both the 2018 Best SportingFacility award and the Women In Building award for theirgeneral manager of sales, Sue Baldwin at the recent Master Builders Awards, confirms the quality and commitmentPalm Lakehave achieved with their stunning Toowoomba Pinnacle resort

With each new decade, retirees expect more qualityand live moreactive lifestyles, creating seismic shifts in the way people retire. The quaint retirement villages of the 80’s bear almost no resemblance to the luxuriousresorts of today Through all this, Palm LakeGroup’s continual success in an often volatile development industry shows business thinking that is willing to evolve to new ways of living.

Scott Elliott remembers mowingthe lawns at Palm LakeResort Willow Lodge as ateenager back in the 1970s,and clocking laps on his motorbiketothe (understandable) dismay of the neighbours

Nowadays,he has refocused his energy into exciting new projectsasmanaging director alongside his father and founder,Walter Elliott.

“The country club and our display village showcase an architecturally elegantlifestyle that raises the benchmark in Toowoomba, creating adefinite buzz and drawing visitors from many regional towns,” said Sue. “The homesand resort arehonestly breathtaking.”

ToowoombaPinnacle’s energy-efficient home designs offer exquisite open-plan living with raked ceilings to maximise natural light, spaceand comfort. Caesarstone benchtops, Smeg appliances and other luxury fittings and finishes add to the grandeur and comeasstandard.

ToowoombaRegional Council mayor Paul Antonio described the Pinnacle CountryClub as “perhaps one of Queensland’s most spectacular” when he officially opened it last year

Some of the additional newclass-leading facilities include awine cellar,60-seatcinema, ten pin bowling alley,eight rink undercover lawn bowls green, Milon gym, heated indoor pool and an outdoor infinity pool.

“Wetruly love what we build,” revealed Sue. “Winning Master Buildersawards meansweare recognised by our industry peers for our quality, craftsmanship we and bold choices to lift the level of prestige and luxury in over-50s lifestyle resorts.”

‘‘ “Wetruly love what we build.” Sue Baldwin

The magnificent $10 millioncountryclub at Toowoomba Pinnacle wins a prestigious Master Builders award

Bespoke homes from Mark WinterConstructionswin big

With energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, Mark Winter Constructions produced an off-gridmasterpiecefor thegreen conscious Baines family

Mark Winter Constructions scooped up three awards at this year’s Master BuildersAwards for twooftheir nominated projects.

The business received the Excellence in Sustainable Living award for their work at ‘the Baines House’ in Rockmount. The homewas designed for a ‘green’ consciousfamily with energyefficiency at the top of their list of priorities.

With energyefficiency and sustainability in mind, Mark Winter Constructions produced amasterpiece. The home’s design allows the captureofvalley breezes, to limit the need for air-conditioning during summer months, and plenty of naturallight for

passivesolar heating in the winter

Some of the most notable sustainable elements of the home, include polished concrete flooring (a great insulator), awood-firestove with catalytic combustors (resulting in emissions of just 0.01%), a rainwater tank and off-grid solar power system

The IndividualHome ($651,000 -$750,000) award was earned for their work on ‘the Johnson House’ in Middle Ridge, as wellasthe Best Residential Bathroom award. The bathroom features astand-alone tub overlookingthe backyard through alarge fixed glass window

Completewith indoor swimming pool, hardwood

floors throughout, triple garage and agames room, this home is stylish, sophisticatedand functional.

Director,Mark Winter,said he loves challenges and has adeep appreciation for design and architecture. He works with ateam of different designers, architects, suppliers and moretofind the best fit for his clients, no matter the sizeor scopeofthe project.

Mark is passionate about creating personalised, bespokehomes for his clients. Whether renovating, building new or extending, Mark Winter Constructions will find the perfect solution for you.

Personalised service for everybuild

To Josh at JRP Building Services, the client’s visionisthe number one priority

JRP Building director,Joshua Poynter, entered the building industry in 2010 by chance whenstarting an apprenticeship with alocalbuilder meant for his brother.“Ididn’t knowitatthe time, but afamily friend recommended my brother for the job. The boss got us mixed up and hired me instead,” laughed Josh.

Since then, Josh has excelled as abuilder and started his own successfulbusiness, JRP Building Services, in January 2017

Josh takes great prideinhis work and has made his clients the number one priority from the beginning. “I like to thinkmy personal service and approachability is what sets me apart from other builders. Iwant my clients to ask questions and be involved every step of the way,” said Josh.

“You deal with me from start to finish; Iamthe director,the builder,the financial controller and the administration team. I love meeting with clients and hearing their vision. The challenge is then for me to bring that vision to life within the client’s budgetand requirements,making surethe build is cost-effective. Ilove seeing my clients’ reactions at the end of the build.”

Having entered the MasterBuilders Awards for the first time this year,after only about 18 monthsin business,showsthe confidenceand prideJosh has in the qualityofhis workmanship. “Towin aMasterBuilders Award would be an honour.I think it would encourage me to grow the business. You’ve made your mark when you win an industry award,” said Josh.

He added that he genuinely loves each project he takes on and is aways eager to takeonnew projects, big or small.

This is abuilder to watch, as Josh is showing no signs of slowing down.

Clientsatisfaction is paramount at Paragon

Understanding that the building experience is remembered long after the job is completed, Steve Glover from Paragon Homes has shaped his business to delivermaximum client satisfaction.

Having startedasanapprenticein2002, Steve learnedatthe hands of ahighly regardedlocal builder and agroup of incredible tradesmen beforestarting his own building business. He is passionate about helping his clients reach the best outcome.

“I believetoo manypeople settle foraverage. We

liketochallengeour clients,” he said. Steve and his team aim to inspiretheir clients to look deeper and to understandthe purpose of what it is they want to achieve.

“Building ahome is most likely one of the biggest financial and emotional investments of aperson’s life. Why settle for astandard house plan, plucked off the wall, when you can havesomuch morewith alittle time, discussion and thought,” said Steve,who believes agreat building experienceisall about relationships.

“Althoughitisimportant, the plans and specificationsofthe build areaminor part of engaging abuilder,” said Steve. He explained not every builder is necessarily going to be the right fit for everybuild. “Your builder needs to taketime to understand what your fears, frustrations, wants and aspirations are.”

Steve believes building ahome isn’t a‘you do what I say,because I’mpaying you’, or a‘I’mthe builder,soI know best’ kind of journey.“The best results happen whenclient and builder join forces as ateam and work side by side towards acommon vision.”

Nominating aproject for an award meansagreat deal to the team at Paragon Homes. “So much effort from our team and trades go into each home we build and, while nominatingthe project is nice, the best feeling is when handing over the keys to our clients and seeingthe delight in their faces. That is what it’s all aboutand why we will continue to do what we do.”

SteveGloverand ParagonHomes builds stunning newand custom designed homes across the Toowoomba region.

Our experience and passion forbuilding, means an attention to detail, and qualityoffinish foryour stunning newhome, together with flexibility and outstanding communication, that can only be delivered by aprofessional, experienced and reputable local builder

Youknowthatbuilding with us,means the person responsible forworking with youduringplanning, design, construction and handover, is the builder responsible forall aspects of construction.

With time, discussionand thought, Steve and his team will deliver the best solution

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JankeConstructions reaprewards

S

cooping up multiple awards at the MasterBuildersAwardsthis year,Janke Constructions has again proved their projects aretoahigh standard.

“Winning binds our team together and proves the work we do is of an exceptional quality,” said director Nelson Janke.Headded that winning an award confirmstheir belief that they have agreat team of trades and workers.

Nelson received the Rising Star award at this year’s Master Builders ceremony.He has always had alove for carpentry,design, and workingwith people. For him, being a builder provides the opportunity to combine these factors.

JankeConstructions is asmall family business, specialising in building custom-designed homes and Nelson works with every clientfromstart to finish. “Welove workingwith clients from the concept stage through to completion,” said Nelson.According to him, JankeConstructions believes the best way to achieve a good building experience, is by choosing abuilder who you feel you can work well with.

To theJankefamily,customer satisfaction is atop priority.“Our business would not moveforward without our clients,” said Nelson Although every projectisunique, their commitment to deliver quality projects for their clients remains unchanged from project to project.

PHOTOS: REDSTAR

Triedand trusted

Arden Vale Homesbelieves ahouse is not just ahome. It’s areflection of yourlifestyle, dreams and character

The business has comealong way since building their first home in 1990 and has gone from strength to strength over the last 28 years.

“It’s very rewarding to build homes for peopleinour region,” said director Tim Waring.

ArdenValeHomes specialises in multi-residential construction, as well as low-rise, two-storey,and sloping site construction. This family business has won numerous construction awardsover the years, including their most recent 2017 Master Builders Award for Best Residential Kitchen, as well as the Individual Home($651,000

$750,000) award.

“InMaster Builders, everythingisself-nominated, so you have to believe you’reworthy of putting aproduct forward,” explained Tim. “I believe we probably have one of the most inclusive products available and we have some of the best trades in Toowoomba,” he added

Arden Vale Homes place great value on assisting their clients through the process, and organisingthe project from start to finish.Whether it’s aclient new to construction, or someone who’s built multiple homes, we don’t let them fend for themselves. We trytomake the process as simple and well-organisedaspossible,

and do so on budget.”

Client feedback is important to the team at Arden Vale Homes. “Each client receives an email from me after the hand-over and accounting process is complete, requesting feedback and atestimony,” said Tim. He explained that client feedbackisused to guide the business in future.

For Tim, the best advice when engaging abuilder,isto build with someone you trust.

PHOTOS: ST AT

Ruby Developments takes Tourism and Leisure Facilities award

Having arrivedinAustralia as an unskilled migrant and political refugee in 1968,Ruby Developments director Peter Puljich comes from humble beginnings.

He found work in the construction industry soon after his arrival and never looked back. Over the years, Peter has been involved in the construction of scores of high-rises,resorts and universities on the Gold Coast and has employed thousands of people since startingout.

In the late 1980s he developed an interest in caravan parks and constructed his first manufactured home park at Coombabah on the Gold Coast, now known as Living Gems Gold Coast. Since then, Peter’s construction companies have developed eight contemporary and multi-award winningmanufactured home parks, designed especially for over-50s.

ThroughRuby Developments, Peter is apioneer and leadingoperatorinthe seniors housing industry.Ruby Developments specialises in all aspects associated with the developmentofLiving Gems Lifestyle Resorts; from undertakingcivil works across several large greenfield sites to building world-class country clubs and common area facilities and manufactured homes.

RubyDevelopmentsgeneral manager,Vlad Pullich,

said the company is set apart from competitors in a number of ways. “Wehave unparalleled experience in developing all aspects of manufactured homeparks and world-class over-50s resorts,” he said. “Weprovide an affordable, first-class housing and lifestyle product to our clients with top shelf standard inclusions that others call ‘extras’.”

Peter said he considersmany factors when nominating asuitable project for aMaster Builders award. “I look at thescale and cost of the development, the number of trades and employees and whether the project pushed the boundaries of what is currently being offered by others,” he said. At the MasterBuilders awards ceremony this year,Ruby Developments received the Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million award for the construction of Living GemsToowoomba.

“Itisanabsolute honour and privilege to receive the award. Being recognised as a‘winner’ in avery competitivemarket, populated by other excellent operators, represents an amazing recognition of the many years of hard and creative work injected into our development by countless passionate and professional staff,advisors and contractors,” said Vlad.

Join an award winning club you can afford.

Thenew Country Club at Living Gems Toowoomba is winning praise all round.

Our homeowners enjoyresort style facilities including exclusive use of the tennis court, indoor heatedpool, bowling green and bar

The over-50s Living Gems Toowoomba lifestyle resort proves to be awinner

PHOTOS: EMPEROR CREA TIVE

PBG claims awin in itsfirstyear

Home

to $275,000

Performance Building Group.

at

is

“Winning aMaster Builders award means you’reatthe forefront of the building game. It means the quality of your work is of avery high standard,” said director Adam Thomas. To Adam and co-director John Nicholas, customer satisfactionis everythinginthe building game. “Thereisalot of competition out there. If your clients aren’t satisfied, you won’t get repeat work or word of mouth referrals, and 85 per cent of

workload is from repeat customersand referrals,” said Adam.

Whenengagingabuilder,Adam said to makesurethe scope of the works completed by the builder includes everythingyou want in the original price. “Know exactlywhat you want beforeconstruction starts, as changes along the way can be costly.”

Thedynamic duo

Husbandand wife team, Joe and Mandy Ryan,deliver atotal solution to your bathroom, kitchen and laundry needs.

Having amassed over 27 years’ experience in tiling, renovation and interior design, Joe and Mandy started Complete BathroomsToowoomba in March 2017.Mandy designs the space, and works with clients to source items and fixtures for their dream bathroom, while Joe completes all the building and tiling work and manages the othertrades involved.

“Wepride ourselves on ensuring the client is always happy, andnothingistoo muchtrouble,” Mandy said .They believe tiling is what makes abathroom and take great caretoproduce immaculate results.

At Complete Bathrooms Toowoomba, they pride themselves on consistent quality and always use the same subcontractors. “They arethe best in their field and this allows us to complete perfectbathrooms. We couldn’t do what we do withoutour trades, and we’reextremely thankful to them for making our business asuccess,” said Mandy Ryan.

PHOTO: CURL Y'S SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: SHANE ROB SO N

Southern Stars wins Residential Contractor of the Year award

In2009,Southern Stars Air Conditioning started with one ute and adream. The business has since grown into an established and well-respected household name

“Wewanted to be apart of Toowoomba’s growth, and we wanted to work with reputable builders who endeavourtoexcel in theirfield,” said director Darren Bennett of the motivation behind entering the industry almost adecade ago. Starting out as an air-conditioningbusiness, Southern Stars Air Conditioning has expanded andnow also specialise in electrical, solar,and ‘smart home’ products.

Southern Stars Air Conditioninghas won the 2018 MasterBuilders Residential Contractor of the Year award for their work at the Srivastava residence in Kara View Court. “Being awarded the Residential Contractor of the Year in 2016 meant alot to our business and all

our staff.Itisanexcellent achievement to be awarded the title again, and confirmsour team is aprofessional outfitwhich continues to maintain our high standards for our clients,” said Darren.

The team pride themselvesontheir customer service and professionalism. “Southern Stars wouldn’t be the business it is today without customer satisfaction,” said Darren, who believes their workmanship, product quality and reputation is a reflection of their continued growth, and sets them apart in their industry.“Maintainingthese key components as the business grows, is acredit to all staff —past and present,” he said.

Darren stresses the importance of doing your homework whenengagingabuilder or contractor “Check reviews and ensurethe contractor or sub-contractor is fully licenced and insured.”

business received recognitionfor their work on the House of the Year

ValdalProjects rakeinthe awards

For Stuart Valdaland his team, it’s aboutcreating something different everytime

tuart Valdal and his partner and co-director,Emily,started Valdal Projects about four years ago and has enjoyed the growth of their business herein Toowoombaover the last three years. “AtValdalProjects, we try to create something different,” said Stuart.

The Valdal team do new residentialcustom builds, as well as residential and commercial renovations and extensions. Stuart believes the detail of their work and theirextra finishing touchesset them apart in the industry.“We go the extra mile. We even go choose the tiles and light fittings with our clients,” he said.

In 2016,Stuart received the MasterBuilders Rising Star Award.

At the MasterBuilders Awards this year,ValdalProjectsreceived the Commercial Building up to $5 million award for their work at the Oakville ChildcareCentre, as well as the Home Renovation/Remodelling Project ($576,000 -$1million) award for the renovation of 93 Mary Street.

When nominating projects for an award, the Valdal team looks for projects with lots of detail, and projects that arealittle bit different. “It’s agood feeling and it shows futureclients we do things to ahigherstandard, and we takepride in our work. It’s agreat achievement.”

Stuart believes references arekey to asuccessful business. “I want my clients to be happyand for them to pass my name on to friends and family,” he explained. He also believes, when engaging abuilder,their references will tell you all you need to know. Stuart urges people to look at past projects their builder has done,and to talk to their past clients if possible,beforeengaging the builder

PHOTOS: ST AT IK

Apprentice of the Year Chelsea Hayward

Chelsea completed her four-yearplumbing apprenticeship in March with Golden West Apprenticeships and quickly showed her passionfor hard work. “Asmyskills progressed,Ibecame proud of what Icould achieve as aplumber,” said Chelsea. She is aprimeexample of how hard work and dedication can result in afulfillingand exciting career “Asa result of my efforts, Iwas awarded the Best Overall Apprenticeinthe South West from TAFE Queensland. This didn’t just happen -Ihad to work hard at it and devote myself to improving my skills,” she said. “Asayoung female apprentice in a non-traditional trade, Iknow Ichallenged attitudes about traditional gender roles in our community,” said Chelsea, who accords her colleagues with the same respect she hopestoreceive in return “I am motivatedtodevelopmyskills and knowledge to ahigh level and to becomethe best tradesperson I can be. Iencourage anyone considering atrade to do the same.”

Rising Star NelsonJanke

After growing up on adairy farm in Westbrook, Nelsonhad his start in the building industry as an apprentice carpenter in 2008

Acouple years later,Nelson started Janke Constructions and has been delivering specialised, custombuilt homes and renovation projects since then

He worksclosely with architects, certifiers, engineers and other builders, to ensurehis knowledgeiscurrent and always expanding.

JankeConstructions is currently delivering multiple projects with contract values of over $1 million, as well as smaller commercial projects.

newly

Women In Building Sue Baldwin

Sue has afine eye for detail, aperfectionist streak, and keeps up with international style trends.

She knows the importance of hitting deadlines and delivering on apromise.The projects she delivers for the Palm LakeGroup is proof of her quality workmanship and delivery standards.

Sue played acrucial role in seeing Palm LakeResort takehome major awards in both the MasterBuilders Northernregion and Downs& Westernregion awards ceremonies

Becauseofher impressive track record, she now has alarge say in the colour schemes, fixtures, fittings and inclusions in all new projects, along with the stylisation of the country clubs and display homes.

The MasterBuilders Memorial Award went out to Darren BuckleyofDJBuckleyBuilders.

Memorial Award DarrenBuckley

Swish Design and Construct builds for legacy

Swish Design and Construct have won the Master Builders award for Individual Home $251,000 –$350,000 and have walked away with the President’s Award at this year’s ceremony

“It’s great to be rewarded for the constant hard work our team puts into each and every one of our projects,” said director Jonny Wells, to whom the building game is about so much morethan receiving awardsand accolades. “We’reproud of allour awards, but that’s not what motivates us. We buildfor our clients and for ourselves. We build for legacy.”

According to Jonny,Swish Designand Construct arewellknownfor building homes with adistinct point of difference and cover everything from the best of everyday living through to high-end custom projects. “Weare genuinely passionate about the building industry and committed to providing the best valuefor money in the marketplace,”hesaid.

He believes engaging abuilder should be morethan just acontractual relationship. “Create arelationship, not atransaction.” He advises prospective clients of any builder to check the builder’s work history to ensurethey have the necessary experience to takeonyour project.“Acombination of enthusiasm and experience is paramount,” he said.

The business won multiple awards at this year’s Master Awards ceremony

Urbane Build wins at renovation game

The CavellStreet project showcasesthe team’s skills and eye for detail

UrbaneBuild has won the Master BuildersHome Renovation /RemodellingProject($276,000 $575,000) award. “When we produce aproduct worthy of going up against the best, it’s aproud moment for all involved,” said director Jace Townsing. He credits the work of their sub-contractor,Big House Little House, for doing the drawings on the winning project at 31 Cavell Street, East Toowoomba.

Jace and fellow director,LukeErickson, say building provides aplatform to showcase their skills, knowledge and passion for design and construction. Toowoomba born and bred, the Urbane Build team specialises in residential custom new builds and alterations, and pride themselves on their insight into past, presentand future trends.

“Weare personal builderswho accommodate people’s budgets. Each job, no matter the budget, is given the same attention and professionalism, whether it’s a$1million dollar,ora$100,000 project,” said Luke. According to the team, an integral part of their customer relations is being upfront, inclusive and informative with all clients, no matter the job. These attributes help them to ensure customer satisfaction every time.

Whenlooking to engage abuilder,the team recommendsfinding abuilder you can relate to and who is willing to work with you.

PHOTOS: BIG HOUSE LITTLE HOUSE

JEFF AND KARYN BUBECK.

JONNY AND KATIE WELLS

TAYLA BUBECK AND KAYLA HOLMES.

the

night

(FROM LEFT )SHELLEY KERKIN, JOSH KERKIN, CRAIG BEARKLEY,RYANWOODFIELD, JANA WOODFIELD, MARK HARLAND AND DEBORAH HEGGS.

(FROM LEFT )LAUREN ALSEMGEEST,JADE SCOTT,EMILYBOSMAN AND MADDY SEARS.

PHOTOS: NEV MADSEN

(FROM LEFT )DEBORAH HEGGS, MARK HARLAND AND SHELLEY KERKIN.

(FROM LEFT )MARK HAMILL, STACEY RICHARDSON AND SCOTT RICHARDSON.