Mooloolaba high-rise First Light has been crowned the best in the state, taking out the award for Residential Building (high-rise over three storey) up to $20 million at the Queensland Master Builders Awards Housing & Construction Awards held in Brisbane over the weekend.

RCQ Construction, the project builder, has won the prestigious award two years in a row after last year securing the accolade for the Riviera apartment project in Mackay.

Gavin Wuiske, General Manager of RCQ Construction said he was thrilled to have his team’s efforts recognised again for another regionally based project, and to have the spotlight shone on the building for excellence at state level.

“We are grateful to and extremely proud of our passionate project team, local subcontractors, consultants and suppliers who worked tirelessly to achieve an outstanding result for all involved,” Mr Wuiske said.

Located on First Avenue in Mooloolaba, the First Light project consists of 67 two and three-bedroom apartments spread over 13 levels and serviced by two lifts.

The project was erected on a challenging site; built to all four boundaries between existing residential towers in the heart of Mooloolaba. Due to the complexities of the site and location, the teams were required to use exceptional public relations skills to manage road closures, deliveries and noise interruptions.

Mr Wuiske said the project had been designed and constructed specifically to deal with the lowest level being situated below sea level.

“First Light was completed in record time, with our team finishing 10 weeks ahead of schedule on the 16-month contract duration.”

“The hybrid design incorporates RITEK internal walls and this, combined with the James Hardie lightweight façade, makes the high-rise a standout.”

Mr Wuiske said as a $20 million project, construction of First Light contributed significantly to the local economy.

“Having been in operation for three decades, RCQ Construction has strong roots on the Sunshine Coast and we pride ourselves on employing local workers wherever possible,” he said.

“We estimate that for every construction job created there are at least two other jobs generated in related industries.”

Mr Wuiske said RCQ Construction’s aim was to exceed clients’ expectations and establish and maintain long-lasting partnerships.

“We’re proud to acknowledge that repeat business makes up 80 per cent of our turnover and we have accumulated a long list of industry awards including more than 50 Master Builder Awards.”

“Building on relationships is our priority and partnering with clients, subcontractors and suppliers alike is the key to our success.”

The project will now go on to compete in the national awards.

To find out more about RCQ Construction, please visit www.rcq.net.au or call 07 5459 1800.