First Steps Count Building Awarded Best in Recycled Timber Category at the 2024 Australian Timber Design Awards
On Wednesday, 16 October 2024 The Australian Timber Design Awards announced their 2024 winners, and the First Steps Count Child and Community Centre, designed by Austin McFarland Architects, was honoured with the Recycled Timber award.
The Australian Timber Design Awards, now in their 25th year, provide a national platform for architects, builders, engineers, designers, landscapers and students to showcase exemplary timber use. Since their inception in 2000, the awards have celebrated projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability and a strong timber‑design ethos across a wide range of applications.
Organised by the Timber Development Association (TDA) in partnership with Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) and WoodSolutions, the competition recognises excellence in categories such as residential, commercial, public buildings and, notably, recycled timber. The Recycled Timber award highlights projects that repurpose timber in a manner that reduces environmental impact while delivering high‑quality design outcomes.
The First Steps Count Child and Community Centre, a purpose‑built hub for families with children aged 0‑12, exemplifies these principles. Constructed using reclaimed timber components, the building demonstrates how recycled material can be integrated into a functional, welcoming environment that supports child and family services and community engagement.
Beyond its architectural merits, the hub is focussed on building relationships with numerous local families each month, offering service navigation, playgroups, parenting programs and a safe, welcoming environment for children aged 0‑12. The awards underscore how thoughtful design can amplify social outcomes, supporting families to thrive while strengthening the broader regional community.
Media Enquiries:
Clare Brennan, Centre Director
clare.brennan@firststepscount.org
Links:
For more information about the awards, visit the Australian Timber Design Awards Website
