The winners of the Australian Institute of Architecture’s 2026 Central Queensland Regional Architecture Awards have been named, with a new visitor hub at Rockhampton Botanic Gardens and Zoo taking out the titles of Regional Project of the Year and Building of the Year.
Designed by Cox Architecture in collaboration with local practice Design and Architecture, the project delivers a new public entrance to improve orientation, accessibility and amenity. It includes a new gathering space, public amenities, a multipurpose room, education spaces, reptile enclosures and shaded outdoor areas for visitors. The first stage of a broader masterplan, the hub establishes a new circulation route through the zoo, supporting future exhibit development and equitable access.
The winning and commended projects are shortlisted for the Institute’s Queensland Architecture Awards, set to be announced at a presentation on 26 June 2026 at Brisbane City Hall.
Regional Project of the Year
Rockhampton Garden and Zoo Visitor Hub – Cox Architecture with Design and Architecture
J. W. Wilson Award for Building of the Year
Rockhampton Garden and Zoo Visitor Hub – Cox Architecture with Design and Architecture
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Public Architecture
Commendations
Rockhampton Garden and Zoo Visitor Hub – Cox Architecture with Design and Architecture
Bundaberg Aquatic Centre – Arch
Isaac Events Centre, Moranbah – Deicke Richards Architects
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