Recognised for Excellence: Mannix Wins Two APSAA Awards

June 20, 2025

Excellence in Facility Development or Management

For our Dining Hall redevelopment

This award celebrates more than a renovation—it recognises a transformation of space, culture, and community. Designed by architect Michael Hrysomallis and brought to life with a large-scale mural by Wurundjeri artist Simone Thomson, the new dining hall invites students into a space that honours both tradition and identity. It’s a daily gathering place that blends contemporary design, cultural inclusion, and fabulous food delivered by our catering partners at Compass Group.

“Hiro Design was proud to contribute to the Mannix Dining Hall Servery Upgrade, creating a vibrant and functional space that enhances the student experience. It was a true team effort, and we’re thrilled with the result.” - Michael Hrysomallis

“I drew upon the importance of community and sitting together with respect. The coolamon dish—used for carrying food and knowledge—symbolises both nourishment and the start of our learning journey.” The artwork is a vibrant tribute to culture, tradition, and togetherness, beautifully anchoring the space in a deeper sense of purpose.” - Simone Thomson

Excellence in Student Experience

For our academic support program

Led by our Director of Academics & Careers, India Wright, StudyFest reimagines academic support with a holistic approach—where motivation, wellbeing, and peer connection are just as important as marks. With structured programming, student-led input, and a focus on thriving (not just surviving), StudyFest has set a new benchmark for student-centred practice.

“StudyFest is an example of a whole College commitment to doing something courageously different, innovating to create a data-driven solution that has tangible outcomes for our community.” - India Wright, Director of Academics & Employability

India also presented a conference workshop showcasing the success of StudyFest, sharing its model with education professionals across the region.

These accolades follow Mannix’s 2024 APSAA Award for Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals, making this our third international honour in just two years—a rare feat for a residential college in the competitive student accommodation sector.

While awards are never the aim, they are a reflection of the quality, integrity, and innovation that underpin everything we do. These honours belong to the entire Mannix team—whose commitment brings our mission to life day after day.

"These awards aren’t just a celebration of projects—they’re a recognition of purpose. They affirm our belief that values-led education, delivered with care and courage, still matters." — Andrew Swan, Principal

To all who support, lead, and inspire this work: thank you. You make recognition like this possible.