- Bold new bridge named Queensland's best at Minister's Awards for Urban Design.
- Dalby's Mary's Place also wins award for transforming disaster into a space of resilience and community connection.
- Straddie modular housing project sets a new benchmark in modern construction methods.
The Crisafulli Government has commended Brisbane's newest landmark — the 470-metre Kangaroo Point Bridge — which has taken out the State's top urban design honour.
The bridge was named joint winner of the Minister's Award for Urban Design, alongside Mary's Place in Dalby — a new public park that has transformed the site of a fire-damaged pub into a symbol of regional renewal.
The annual award, sponsored by the Queensland Government Architect, recognises outstanding contributions to urban design across the state.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge, a striking single-mast, cable-stayed pedestrian and cycleway connecting Kangaroo Point to the central business district, also received the Movement and Place Award, presented in partnership with the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Judges praised the project as a masterful balancing of complex functional and structural priorities with a deeply generous program of urban experiences, incorporating activated plazas, historic elements, a 100-seat dining pavilion, and sweeping views of both riverbanks.
In Dalby, Mary's Place was recognised for delivering a vibrant community space on a modest budget, while celebrating the resilience and character of the proud regional community.
Built on the site of the Commercial Hotel — which burnt down in 2018 — the park is named after long-time publican Mary Barry and serves as a hub for events, gatherings, and to showcase public art.
The Malcolm Middleton Award for Housing Innovation was awarded to the Blok Three Sisters project on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) — a modular multi-residential development that sets a new benchmark in adaptable, high-quality urban housing.
The homes were prefabricated in Brisbane and assembled onsite, integrating sustainability, durability, and modern coastal design.
The judges highlighted its thoughtful spatial layout, focus on natural light and ventilation, and alignment with the principles of QDesign — Queensland's urban design policy.
Housing and Public Works Minister Sam O'Connor congratulated the winners, saying each project provided a better lifestyle for their Queensland communities.
"The Kangaroo Point Bridge is not just a way to cross the river, it's a destination in itself that offers spectacular views, places to dine, and a new way to connect with the city," Minister O'Connor said.
"In Dalby, Mary's Place tells a story of loss, resilience and renewal — turning a burnt-down pub into a vibrant public heart of the community.
"The Blok Three Sisters project on Minjerribah is a great example of modern housing done right — beautiful, sustainable, and smartly built through modular construction.
"Congratulations to all the winners — you are shaping the future of Queensland's cities, towns and neighbourhoods."
Civic Cabinet Chair for Infrastructure Councillor Ryan Murphy said the Kangaroo Point Bridge had quickly become a Brisbane icon, with more than two million trips taken since its opening in December 2024.
"We are incredibly grateful for this award that recognises the unique design of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, and its place as an achievement of Queensland architecture," Cr Murphy said.
"When we designed the bridge, we went for a bold and striking design that would set it apart from all the other bridges in the city.
"While it was a challenging and meticulous construction process, the Kangaroo Point Bridge has become a must-visit destination with two exciting dining spots and spectacular views.
"To have the Kangaroo Point Bridge acknowledged by the State's top design award is a great feather in the cap of the Council, and everyone who worked on this magnificent project."
