The recipient of the AIA 2022 Victorian Architecture Medal, The Grampians Peaks Trail Stage 2 was completed in collaboration with McGregor Coxall as a highly crafted intervention deeply connected to its regional context. Developed over 18 years with Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali guidance, the resulting eleven campsites combine subtleties and a sensitivity to place to respectfully expand on the powerful narrative of the landscape. As a series of modest pavilions and amenities - each with a shared design language - they respond uniquely to the geology, vegetation, and views of each site.

A modular design approach responded to the limitations of remote locations, allowing for carefully articulated structures that offer comfort and a profound appreciation of Gariwerd's wilderness. Stage 2 celebrates the experience of being immersed within the region, nurturing a deeper understanding of and connection to Country. Parks Victoria and Traditional Owners collaborated to further define the guidelines to ensure a respectful integration of the landform, ecology, and cultural significance. As a result, the design minimises impact, prioritising the iconic Gariwerd landscape as hero.

As a family of related forms, the architecture was envisioned to harmonise with each of the specific sites in an individual way, ensuring each site retains a unique character and sense of place. Natural materials reflect the local textural and tonal palette, ensuring the structures age gracefully over time within the Gariwerd terrain. Campsites ‘touch the earth lightly’, becoming part of the landscape over time. The design responds to the terrain's diversity and remoteness, adopting modular design strategies and appropriate construction methods for remote sites with ‘helicopter only’ access for construction.

The Grampians Peaks Trail celebrates its unique Gariwerd context and promises to be a significant drawcard to the region's tourism and economy, solidifying its place as one of Australia's great walks.