Landscape architecture redevelopments at Subi East’s new-look oval and Bunbury’s Maidens Reserve have been crowned the best in Western Australia.
In a ceremony at Royal Perth Yacht Club on Friday evening, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects’ WA chapter awarded the Maidens Reserve redevelopment the highest achiever in the regions and gave it the top honour overall, the WA Medal.
The Maidens Reserve trail design drew inspiration from all-abilities climbs across the globe. Credit: DBCA
The Institute’s jury chairwoman Amanda Mannolini said they had been captivated by the new lookout trails designed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, in collaboration with the City of Bunbury and an accessibility expert panel.
The trails allow those using devices such as wheelchairs and prams to access a lower lookout and have an easy return to the car park, while also providing a spectacular stair climb.
“This was a challenging project because it involved a 58-metre rise, dealing with it so softly that it did not impact the landscape around it,” Mannolini said.
“Being able to build it despite that steep grade, so that people with access issues could get up there, and doing it in such a simple-looking form, was the clincher. That was why our eyes lit up, it was done so elegantly.”
The jury’s official comments said the project’s subtle interventions and careful restoration enhanced both access and ecological integrity – allowing the landscape to heal while welcoming more people to experience it.
“Weaving built form seamlessly into the natural setting … is a landmark example of regional landscape architecture that offers a bold, memorable, and deeply inclusive experience,” they said.
Maidens Reserve also won an Award of Excellence in Parks and Open Space and one of three Regional Achievement Awards.
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