The Australian Institute of Architects awards were handed down on Saturday, with the Bawley Point centre in the interior and public architecture categories.

Owner Terry Snow said many of the builders and tradesmen involved in the project hailed from the South Coast.

“Every day, as I walk or ride through Willinga Park, I take my hat off to the designers, builders, landscapers and gardeners who have combined to produce such a magnificent result. They all deserve awards,” Mr Snow said.

“It is already proving to be a huge drawcard for the equestrian community, and for the South Coast.”

The 200-hectare facility opened in March this year and has 33 stables, four dressage arenas, a round yard, heated hydrotherapy pool and stock yards.

The centre is expected to host some of the nation’s best dressage riders in September for ‘Dressage by the Sea’.