Emergent Studios and Bush Projects’ design for the Munarra Centre earned praise for its deep connection to Country and community empowerment.
Photo by
Peter Bennetts
Landscape architecture brings nature into the heart of daily life, shaping parks, precincts, wetlands and public spaces that invite us to gather, connect and belong.
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For two Shepparton-based projects, being recognised for exactly that has been a major honour.
The Shepparton Art Museum and the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence both received Regional Achievement Awards at the 2024 Victorian Landscape Architecture Awards, held on Thursday, June 5.
Hosted by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, the celebration took place at Melbourne’s Plaza Ballroom, recognising excellence in landscape design across the state.
SAM, designed by Urban Initiatives, received not only a Regional Achievement Award but also a Landscape Architecture Award for Tourism.
AILA VIC jury chair Bridget Keane described the project as “adding to Shepparton’s cultural landscape by providing green spaces for the regional community to gather, create and celebrate”.
Also recognised was the Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence, which received aLandscape Architecture Award for Health and Education Landscape, alongside a Regional Achievement Award.
Designed by Emergent Studios (Bush Projects), the First Nations-led initiative was praised for its strong cultural and community focus.
The Munarra Centre, located in Shepparton’s Sports Precinct, is a First Nations-led hub offering culturally focused education, health and community programs.
Bush Projects architect and director Matthew Hamilton said the landscape design for the Munarra Centre reflected a strong commitment to culturally responsive, community-focused design — particularly in projects that honoured and integrated First Nations perspectives.
“For us, it was always about doing what was best for the community,” Mr Hamilton said.
“The Munarra Centre was designed to empower both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities through culturally responsive education, health and community programs.
“Thank you to everyone who was involved — the community, all stakeholders, Elders — I wouldn’t want to forget anyone.
“Our team is extremely proud to have been recognised for such a community-led project.”
All AILA VIC award winners now progress to the National Landscape Architecture Awards, to be announced in October in Hobart.
Shepparton Art Museum’s striking form, complemented by thoughtful landscaping, was recognised with both a Regional Achievement Award and a Landscape Architecture Award for Tourism.
Photo by
Drew Echberg
An aerial view of the Shepparton Art Museum highlights its integration with the surrounding landscape — earning national recognition for its role in shaping a vibrant cultural and community precinct.
Photo by
Tim Griffith
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