REFLECTIONS fringe event
Photo: Katherine Lu
Another of our Saturday fringe events will be a visit to the Ward Oval Pavilion, also led by Jonathan Temple (Dunn Hillam). Here we'll explore how architecture can strengthen the civic and sporting life of a regional community. Positioned at the heart of Cobar's Ward Oval Precinct, the pavilion forms part of DunnHillam's broader masterplan to revitalise one of the town's most important public places.
WARD OVAL PAVILION
The pavilion's location was carefully considered to maximise accessibility, visibility and connection to the surrounding sports grounds, allowing spectators and visitors to engage with the activity on the adjacent ovals. The design was shaped by extensive community consultation, with the final brief informed by more than 75 responses from local residents. The result is a highly flexible facility incorporating a multipurpose hall, commercial kitchen, bar, canteen, public amenities and changerooms, creating infrastructure that supports both everyday sporting use and major community events.
During our visit, we'll discover how the project balances practical community needs with a thoughtful architectural response, providing a welcoming venue for everything from local sport and the annual Cobar Show to regional conferences and community celebrations. Recognised with a regional architecture award, the Ward Oval Pavilion demonstrates how carefully considered civic architecture, informed by community input, can enhance the social life and long-term resilience of regional communities.
EVENT INFO
REFLECTIONS: A Regional Architecture Association Journey
DATES 17-19 September 2026
LOCATION Cobar NSW on Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan Country. The Friday main seminar day will be at Cobar Youth & Community Centre, 1 Harcourt St, Cobar NSW.
CPD 6 formal points available on the Friday
Photo: Katherine Lu
Photo: Katherine Lu
Photo: Katherine Lu
Photo: Katherine Lu
