Timber Queensland Launches National Award to Honour Colin MacKenzie and Strengthen Technical Capability

Timber Queensland has announced the establishment of the Colin MacKenzie Award for Technical Excellence in Timber Application and Use, calling on industry partners across Australia to contribute seed funding to bring the new national award to life.

The award will honour the late Colin MacKenzie, who passed away on 24 March 2025, and whose four decades of leadership profoundly shaped timber engineering, Australian Standards, and building compliance. The initiative responds to widespread calls from industry to formally recognise Colin’s legacy and continue the work he championed lifting capability, innovation, and confidence in the use of timber across Australian construction.

“Colin’s influence can be seen in almost every aspect of timber engineering and compliance standards,” said Timber Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mick Stephens.

“This award will recognise the next generation of innovators and continue the legacy of technical leadership he dedicated his life to,” he said.

Timber Queensland is now seeking seed funding contributions from industry to establish the award as a permanent national honour.

The Colin MacKenzie Award will recognise individuals or small teams who are advancing timber engineering and design across Australia.

“The award is intended for engineers, architects, designers, builders and researchers who are delivering real technical impact and helping to strengthen capability across the sector,” said Mick Stephens

“Judging will focus on technical merit, innovation, and the contribution a project or individual makes to improving knowledge, collaboration and sustainability in timber use and consider alignment with Colin’s vision for timber as a high‑performance, compliant and fit‑for‑purpose construction material.”

Mr Stephens said recipients will be honoured at a major industry event.

“We want this to be a significant national recognition, supported by an honour roll and a cash bursary that encourages excellence and inspires emerging professionals.”

Award objectives and judging criteria have been drafted, with industry feedback to be incorporated as the program is finalised. Full details will be released once funding commitments are secured.

“Following the call for support the best governance and funding model will be established taking into account ideas developed with other potential national and state partners given the broad reach of the award,” Mick Stephens said.

“By supporting this award, organisations will be investing in the technical capability our sector needs for the future.”

Organisations wishing to contribute are invited to complete an online form to indicate interest. Timber Queensland will contact supporters directly to facilitate contributions.