Barada Barna
Queensland
Central Queensland
Isaac Events Centre in Moranbah is the considered refurbishment of a much-loved civic building, formerly the Moranbah Community Centre. The renewal of the facility respects its deep community significance and history. Rather than a wholesale transformation, the design focuses on clarity, adaptability, and reconnection, allowing the next chapter to emerge from the building’s established role.
A highly consultative process including intensive on-site design workshops ensured shared priorities were resolved quickly. Internally, a warm palette draws from the Isaac region’s landscapes, while cultural acknowledgement of the Barada Barna people is embedded through art and artefacts. Externally, a renewed forecourt reinforces the centre’s enduring civic and spiritual presence.
Community centres are the heart of regional and remote communities and Deicke Richards Architects has breathed new life and purpose into the existing Isaac Events Centre in Moranbah from the inside out. Internal spaces have been reorganised to create distinct and efficient zones – an elegant public events area looking east and a business zone facing the adjacent Isaac Council chambers. By shifting public spaces to the outer edge of the building to better connect with the newly landscaped surrounds, service zones were consolidated and public spaces were enhanced with soaring ceiling lines and high-end finishes to give a sense of ceremony.
Commendation for Public Architecture
Community centres are the heart of regional and remote communities and Deicke Richards Architects has breathed new life and purpose into the existing Isaac Events Centre in Moranbah from the inside out. Internal spaces have been reorganised to create distinct and efficient zones – an elegant public events area looking east and a business zone facing the adjacent Isaac Council chambers. By shifting public spaces to the outer edge of the building to better connect with the newly landscaped surrounds, service zones were consolidated and public spaces were enhanced with soaring ceiling lines and high-end finishes to give a sense of ceremony.
The redesigned Isaac Events Centre has changed how we operate and how the community uses the venue. A better layout and upgraded amenities help us attract larger events while still supporting everyday activities. Flexible spaces and clearer wayfinding make hosting easier and more professional. Since reopening, we’ve welcomed the Mayor’s Ball, Women in Mining events, Queensland Mines Rescue Service award ceremonies, and family favourites like local Santa photos. Multiple groups can now use the centre at once, improving efficiency and reducing setup time. The venue feels modern, accessible, and welcoming—strengthening its role as a key gathering place for Isaac.
Tim Zieth, Project Architect
Michael Shannon, Graduate of Architecture
Cameron Davies, Design Architect
Genevieve Quinn, Graduate of Architecture
Acor, Hydraulic Consultant
Vee Design, Landscape Consultant
Aurecon, Project Manager
Paragon, Civil Consultant
Paragon, Structural Engineer
Food Strategy, Kitchen