Sunshine Coast-based modular housing specialist Oly Homes has been recognised at the 2025 Master Builders Far North Queensland Housing & Construction Awards, winning the Prefabricated & Modular Housing category for its Thursday Island project.
The award acknowledges the company’s delivery of eight modular homes to one of Queensland’s most remote communities, a project delivered in collaboration with the Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia and the Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund.
General Manager of Oly Homes, Steven Nousala, said the company overcame logistical and environmental challenges to complete the project on time.
“We are so thrilled to win this award, it highlights what’s possible when innovative construction methods are combined with purpose-driven partnerships,” Nousala said.
“Building on Thursday Island meant navigating some of the most complex logistical conditions we’ve ever faced, but it also gave us an opportunity to demonstrate the real strengths of modular construction.”
The prefabricated homes were manufactured off-site in a controlled environment by the Oly Homes team and transported to the island by sea, protected with a specialised wrapping developed in Melbourne to prevent saltwater damage, Oly Homes said in a news release.
According to the company, the designs incorporated passive design principles tailoured to the local climate and included two fully accessible units to accommodate residents with disabilities or mobility needs.
“Our team is proud to have delivered not just houses, but a lasting community impact which will benefit generations of Thursday Islanders for years to come,” Nousala added.
Rev. Bruce Moore, Moderator of the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod, emphasised the collaborative nature of the development.
“The project was more than just a housing development, it was a true partnership with the people of Thursday Island. By working together, we have provided families with a place to call home while contributing to the long-term well-being of this community.”
Oly Homes, which began operations in Yandina more than five decades ago, said it attributes its success to its longevity and depth of industry experience.
“Decades of expertise have refined our craftsmanship which enables us to deliver consistently high quality modular homes,” Nousala said.
“This industry recognition drives us to push boundaries, uphold high standards, and further establish Oly Homes as a national leader in modular construction.”
