QUAMPI honoured with Award for Public Architecture

The Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) is celebrating after the QUAMPI Arts and Cultural Centre won the Award for Public Architecture at the prestigious Australian Institute of Architects’ 2026 Queensland Architecture Awards in June. Located at Gumpi (Dunwich), on North Stradbroke Island, QUAMPI stands as a living expression of Quandamooka people’s culture, supporting exhibitions, performances, workshops, programs and events that strengthen cultural knowledge and connection to County. QUAMPI is part of Minjerribah Futures, the Queensland Government’s investment to support the transition from its past economic reliance on sand mining to a future as a leading destination for cultural and eco-tourism. The Queensland Department of Housing and Public Works managed the design, procurement and construction of QUAMPI on behalf of QYAC and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. Cox Architecture was the Principal Consultant on the Project. QUAMPI Director Avril Quaill said the Award acknowledged the Centre’s innovative design, deep cultural grounding and its role as a beacon for Quandamooka artistic excellence. “QUAMPI is a beautiful place where Quandamooka culture is lived, shared, and celebrated with Queenslanders and visitors alike,” Ms Quaill explained. “We are all so proud that this Award honours our Elders, our artists and the community who have shared our journey and helped bring QUAMPI into existence.” QYAC Chair Cameron Costello said the Award reinforces the importance of Indigenous-led design in Australia’s architectural landscape and extended gratitude to the architects, project partners, Elders and community members.