A Mount Gambier-based construction company has won its third gong at the Master Builders’ Building Excellence Awards, after beating a pool of some of the state’s largest builders in the process.

Dycer Constructions won the ‘Commercial Refurbishment/Redevelopment up to $5m’ category for its redevelopment of the Gilap Wanga Learning Community building at Tenison Woods College.

It’s been described as a “massive shot in the arm” for the company by director Shane Dycer, after picking up the nod over much larger builders.

These included the likes of Kennett Builders and Mossop Construction + Interiors, among others.

“To win a category against the big builders from all over the state, to represent our area, and be the only Limestone Coast builder and project that has won an award, is fantastic,” Mr Dycer told The SE 
Voice.

“It’s really humbling.”

The win was all the sweeter after the Building Excellence Awards were cancelled in 2020, returning this year for a combined 2020 and 2021 showcase with larger pools of entrants to categories.

“Entering the awards and the entire process was a bit harder but there’s probably more icing on top, after winning this time,” Mr Dycer said.

Beginning construction before the coronavirus pandemic in late 2019, the Gilap Wanga redevelopment was completed in nine months, a touch longer than was aimed for by Dycer Constructions due to the challenges of building in 2020.

However, the build wrapped in July that year after directly and in-directly employing around 400 people, local tradespeople, subcontractors, manufacturers, and the like.

Incorporating donated elements, construction of the Gilap Wanga redevelopment is estimated to have cost around $4m.

The win marks the third time Dycer Constructions has been awarded at the Building Excellence Awards, after picking up awards in 2012 and 2016.