The HASSELL/Trackstar Alliance project, Robina to Varsity Lakes Rail Extension – Varsity Lakes Station has won the prestigious Queensland State Award for Urban Design. The award, presented by the Australian Institute of Architects on Saturday 19 June recognised the project as an innovative and progressive example of station design.

In presenting the award the jury commented that “The Robina Rail Station is a carefully considered, carefully resolved and extremely vigorous piece of public architecture. As well, through respect and adherence to the Varsity Lakes Master Plan, it is designed and sited to eventually cope with large numbers of people, and as such, the spaces provided, materials used are robust and durable. The building reflects a contemporary “sub tropical” architectural idiom which is reflected in the simple well resolved planning of the facility. The planning is instantly and clearly legible, and allows rail users to intuitively find their way to the railway platforms. The Robina Rail Station is intended to become the hub of a transit oriented development surrounding the station; as such it clearly communicates its civic role. Sustainable ingredients in the design such as rainwater harvesting, solar energy generation, and future proofing for further expansion, as well as regular maintenance, extends previous train station design to a new level.”