Judges Comments

It is evident that Manufactor has been an absolute all consuming passion for its owner AonAri Property. It points to a quite radical position that development. in every typology should do more; more for its place; more for its community; more for sustainability; more for the preservation of history. Manufactor clusters like minded manufacturers in a synergistic network bound at its heart by collaboration. This collaboration extends far beyond a casual business association, extending to the sharing of resources, partnering on innovation strategies and an almost 'barter' like system for the exchange of waste products. All of this takes place in the reused, recycled and reinvigorated shell of Penrith's former Copper and Pipe manufacturing plant; a showcase itself of Australia's manufacturing history.

No doubt the inspiration for the idea that perhaps this not only be preserved as a series of interesting artifacts (which it does remarkably well) but more importantly as a way of encouraging and supporting Australian manufacturing. Manufactor's laudable achievements, however don't end there as the site also caters to the public where they can learn and see how local Penrith products are made- from local brisket, artisan beer, and vegan 'meat' Manufactor transforms to a quasi pop up marketplace eager to engage the community. We congratulate AonAri Property for a remarkable exemplar project.

‍