Growing up in Halifax, in North Queensland with no background in construction or property, Mr Lancini completed a trade and founded a small building company in Townsville in 1981. That decision laid the foundations for a Queensland‑based property group that would grow through conviction, calculated risk‑taking and long‑term investment.
Over the past 45 years, that business has evolved into Lancini Property Group, a diversified, privately owned property development and management company with a strong footprint across Queensland, delivering retail, commercial, industrial and mixed‑use precincts.
Mr Lancini has also made a significant contribution to industry leadership and advocacy, serving as the Property Council's Queensland Division President from 2017 to 2019, becoming the first person from North Queensland to hold the role. Following many years of involvement at a state and national level, Mr Lancini remains actively engaged with the Property Council today.
More recently, Mr Lancini has continued to contribute his experience at a state‑shaping level on the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) Board, reflecting his experience in sport infrastructure and supporting the delivery of key projects in the lead‑up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Last year's Legacy Award recipient Stephen Conry AM congratulated Mr Lancini on the honour, saying it was testament to his courage of conviction and long‑standing commitment to the industry.
"The magnitude of Laurence' contribution to the property sector is matched only by his selfless service to QLD on many fronts, " Mr Conry said.
"His business achievements, work ethic, and humility have been an inspiration to many. I cannot think of a more worthy recipient of the Legacy Award".
In a message shared with guests on the night, Mr Lancini said he was deeply humbled to receive the award and credited the industry and its people for his journey.
"I'm humbled, but very proud to accept this award," Mr Lancini said.
"When I reflect on my journey, I'm reminded that it's this industry and the people in it that have helped me grow my business across Queensland and seize the opportunities that have come my way over the last 45 years."
Reflecting on the future of the industry, Mr Lancini said developing the next generation of leaders was critical.
"I'm particularly proud that my two boys can accept this award on my behalf," he said.
"The Property Council does extraordinary work to champion the next generation of industry leaders, and I am incredibly grateful to remain involved."
Property Council Chief Executive Mike Zorbas said Mr Lancini's career reflected the long‑term value property delivers to communities.
"Laurence, like all the great builders, has shown that creating great places means giving people confidence in their futures," Mr Zorbas said.
"His long-term conviction and leadership, particularly in regional Queensland, is a beacon for others to follow."
Property Council Queensland Executive Director Jess Caire said Mr Lancini's journey embodied the spirit of the Legacy Award.
"Laurence's humility and sense of humour are a dangerous combination in the best possible way, making him an outstanding industry leader and someone I am honoured to call a friend and mentor," Ms Caire said.
"He is a daily reminder that work ethic and a never‑give‑up attitude can create a lasting legacy. Laurence has backed Queensland through every cycle and, just as importantly, backed the next generation coming through our industry. We are incredibly fortunate for his ongoing contribution to shaping Queensland's future."
"Congratulations Laurence and thank you for all that you do across our state and for our industry," Ms Caire concluded.