Property Institute recognises standout performers

The Australian Property Institute ACT honoured three of its standout performers at an award ceremony held at The Lobby last week.

The API ACT Excellence in Property Awards’ accolades included the Commonwealth Bank Property Development Award, the Land Development Agency Property Industry Award and the ACT Building and Construction Industry – Training Authority Young Achiever of the Year.

ISPT picked up the property development award for its National Circuit Precinct development. The award honours an individual or an organisation’s outstanding work on a commercial development.

The Barton precinct was master-planned to deliver a vibrant village for public servants. It covers more than 70,000 square metres, which connects the surrounding buildings and their 4500 occupants.

“It’s the next generation of high-quality office buildings,” API ACT president Paul Powderly​ says.

“The award is handed out to developments that have helped show excellence in Canberra. Previous winners include NewActon and the Realm.”

Mr Powderly says the architecture and community engineering have earned the development a place among the top precincts in the ACT.

In addition to the new buildings, 2 National Circuit – a heritage-listed building – was refurbished, forming an integral part of the precinct. It includes a childcare centre, courtyards, plazas and an integrated cafe.

The property industry award, awarded to an individual or team who have demonstrated the qualities of leadership and vision that leads to change in the property industry, was picked up by Noel McCann, an “icon” of Canberra’s property industry.

Mr McCann established McCann and Associates in 1973 before moving onto his current role with the Canberra Airport Group. He has previously served as the president of the Australian Property Industry and the Property Council of Australia.

As the director of planning and government relations for the Canberra Airport Group, Mr McCann is responsible for all aspects of planning and the production of the airport’s five-year master plan.

“Noel has been an icon of the industry for 30 or 40 years,” Mr Powderly says.

“He’s had a big influence on the property industry and is a worthy recipient.”

CBRE’s Mia Dragila​ was named the young achiever of the year for her outstanding performance in a relatively short career. Ms Dragila joined CBRE as a trainee valuer eight years ago and has progressed through the ranks as a certified practising valuer and a manager. Ms Dragila has valued prominent residential development sites including infill estates in Greenway, Lawson and Molonglo.

In addition to managing the team at CBRE, Ms Dragila has taken on a mentoring role, providing guidance and advice to younger members of the team.

“The young achiever award is for people under the age of 35 and highlights those who are going to be future leaders and contribute to their industry,” Mr Powderly says.

“Rather than doing a job, they’re making a difference and improving the property industry – Mia has done that.”