Goulburn’s Rocky Hill War Memorial Museum secures coveted architectural award

Goulburn’s Rocky Hill War Memorial Museum has received two prizes at the recent NSW Architecture Awards - the coveted Blacket Prize, which is the highest honour for projects within regional NSW along with a commendation in the NSW AIA Public Buildings Award category.

Representing an excellent example of collaboration between Council, Architect and Design and Construct contractor, the project was led by Goulburn Mulwaree Council with the building architecture and interior design completed by Crone Architects, landscape design by Urbis, design development and construction by Van Mal Group Construction.

Mayor Bob Kirk commended Council staff and the organisations who were involved in the project.

“Each time I have the pleasure of attending the Rocky Hill War Memorial Museum I am impressed with the design and functionality of the space. The site itself is astounding, and the way the building has been constructed to fit in with the landscape is brilliant.

“The mix of materials include concrete, steel and bronze mirrored cladding which reflects the unique landscape where the building is situated. It’s an example of modern architecture fitting perfectly within the natural landscape, and older building styles.”

Ashley Dennis, Principal at Crone Architects advises “being recognised by the Institute of Architects with the highest honour for a regional project in NSW is extremely humbling and an accolade we proudly share with Goulburn Mulwaree Council, the museum volunteers, Van Mal Group and other project collaborators who have been part of the journey.

“We hope that this building can continue to pay tribute to the region’s ANZAC legacy for generations to come through housing of the world class museum collection and locally significant stories.”

Nico van Mal, Director of Van Mal Group Construction, commended Council on their vision and willingness to create an innovative and exciting project for the community.

“Our role as the Design & Construct contractor was both exciting and challenging. We brought together Crones outstanding Architectural concept, and combined it with our design development and construction management know how. Together, the project represents an excellent example of collaboration between Council, Architect and D&C Contractor. The Van Mal Group team and I are enormously proud to be part of the project and I would like to thank Council, Crone, Jones Nicholson and all the Consultants and Subcontractors involved in delivering this outstanding project.”

Rocky Hill War Memorial Museum was completed in early 2020 and features a modern open plan exhibition space, along with storage and research areas. The $2.5 million project was jointly funded by Goulburn Mulwaree Council and the Federal Government who gave $1.25 million through the Building Better Regions Fund.