Sunshine Coast-based Oly Homes took home top honours at the 2025 Master Builders Far North Queensland Housing & Construction Awards in Cairns last Friday, winning the Prefabricated & Modular Housing category for its delivery of eight modular homes on Thursday Island.
Delivered in partnership with the Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church Australia and the Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund, the project addressed a critical housing shortage in one of Queensland’s most remote communities.
General manager of Oly Homes, Steven Nousala said despite significant logistical challenges, including limited infrastructure, unpredictable weather, and constrained transport access, the homes were delivered on time and to an exceptional standard.
“We are so thrilled to win this award, it highlights what’s possible when innovative construction methods are combined with purpose-driven partnerships,“ Steve said.
“Building on Thursday Island meant navigating some of the most complex logistical conditions we’ve ever faced, but it also gave us an opportunity to demonstrate the real strengths of modular construction.
“Our team is proud to have delivered not just houses, but a lasting community impact which will benefit generations of Thursday Islanders for years to come.”
Steve said that the prefabricated homes were built off-site by the Oly Homes team in a controlled environment and transported by sea using a specialised protective wrapping developed in Melbourne to prevent saltwater damage.
“Each home was carefully designed for the local climate using passive design principles to improve ventilation and energy efficiency. We also constructed two fully accessible units in order to meet the needs of residents with disabilities or mobility impairments,” Steve said.
Rev. Bruce Moore, Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod said the project was more than just a housing development, it was a true partnership with the people of Thursday Island.
“By working together, we have provided families with a place to call home while contributing to the long-term well-being of this community,” he said.
