Port Pirie Riverbank Project Recognised with State Building Excellence Award
Port Pirie's iconic riverbank deck has received industry recognition, with GC&J Construction recently announced as the winner of the Civil category at the 2026 Master Builders Association (MBA) Building Excellence Awards.
The award acknowledges the outstanding delivery of the Port Pirie Riverbank Deck and Shade Sails Project at the Port Pirie Riverbank Precinct, known locally as Solomontown Beach. The landmark development has transformed the city's waterfront and enhanced accessibility, amenity and recreational opportunities for the community.
Projects entered in the MBA Building Excellence Awards are assessed across a wide range of criteria, including work health and safety management, innovation, construction methods, quality of workmanship, sustainability and collaboration between project partners.
Judges praised the project for its high-quality finish, accessibility features and innovative construction methods, while highlighting the strong collaboration between Council, project managers, contractors, suppliers and engineers that helped deliver a successful outcome.
Port Pirie Regional Council Mayor Leon Stephens said the recognition was a testament to the commitment and expertise of everyone involved in bringing the project to life.
"This award is a fantastic achievement and a well-deserved recognition of the exceptional work undertaken by GC&J Construction, Council staff and all project partners," Mayor Stephens said.
"The riverbank deck has quickly become a much-loved community asset, providing a welcoming and accessible space for residents and visitors to enjoy our waterfront. It demonstrates what can be achieved when skilled local and regional contractors work collaboratively to deliver projects that leave a lasting legacy for the community," Mayor Stephens said.
Complete with uniquely designed shade sails, the deck forms the centrepiece of the broader Port Pirie Riverbank Redevelopment Project, replacing the former Cunningham Pavilion, which had reached the end of its service life.
Designed with accessibility at its core, the new structure includes shade sails, seating and tables, along with improved jetty access for people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters (gophers) and prams. New facilities and pathways also enhance access for swimmers and visitors.
Construction of the deck presented a number of challenges, including prolonged periods of unusually high tides. Despite these conditions, GC&J Construction successfully completed the project in time for Australia Day 2026 celebrations.
Council congratulates GC&J Construction on this significant achievement and thanks all contractors, consultants, suppliers and project partners whose dedication and collaboration contributed to the award-winning result.
