Our Story
As expert town planners and building designers, we understand that shaping the spaces where people live, work, and connect is a responsibility that goes far beyond the technical. It’s about envisioning the future, creating environments that resonate with those who inhabit them, and ensuring communities grow in ways that nurture both people and place.
Steve Myers - Managing Director
Steve Myers, founder of MPAA and CoLab Warrnambool, is a recognised expert in town planning with over 24 years of experience across State and local government and the private sector. His deep expertise spans a wide range of projects, from child-care facilities to medium-density residential and commercial developments. In addition to leading MPAA, Steve established CoLab Warrnambool, a creative hub that brings professionals together to foster innovation and collaboration.
Guided by the belief that when things are done well, they enrich the human experience and make a lasting impact, Steve is committed to creating environments that go beyond technical compliance. This dedication to quality drives him across all his ventures, whether designing a neighbourhood, shaping a master plan, or facilitating collaboration at CoLab. His approach focuses on practical, sustainable solutions that bring joy, satisfaction, and a sense of belonging to the communities he serves, leaving a legacy of thoughtful design and lasting value.
Mark Zanos
- Associate Director, Design
With over 24 years of experience in building design, Mark Zanos leads our design studio at MPAA. His extensive background includes managing residential and multi-use developments and collaborating with diverse communities. Mark’s international work, highlighted by his contributions to the innovative and sustainable Masdar City project in Abu Dhabi, showcases his ability to bring forward-thinking solutions to the table.
Mark is known for ensuring that every design is not only functional but also technically accurate, streamlining the construction process. His focus on enhancing the user experience and fostering a sense of belonging in the built environment sets his work apart. His superpower lies in his unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to quality, making his plans a key reason why builders choose to work with MPAA.
Emily Martini - Studio Manager
Emily Martini oversees operations across MPAA, focusing on ensuring that the business functions effectively. With expertise in brand strategy and graphic design, Emily ensures smooth coordination across all areas. In addition to her operational role, Emily also provides executive support as Personal Assistant to Steve Myers. Her role supports MPAA’s commitment to delivering high-quality service while driving strategic growth initiatives.
Cameron McNeill
- Associate, Planning
Cameron McNeill, with a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (first-class honours), brings deep experience in navigating planning processes. Passionate about housing affordability and sustainability, Cameron ensures projects not only meet regulations but also enhance the fabric of communities. His work reflects MPAA’s goal of thoughtful, purposeful planning that leaves a lasting impact.
Amanda Power
- Associate, Planning
Amanda Power brings regional expertise to MPAA, helping clients navigate planning challenges with ease. With a commitment to improving the quality of both natural and built environments, Amanda’s approach aligns with MPAA’s mission to create spaces that enrich community life. She focuses on providing clear, actionable advice to deliver impactful outcomes.
Jason Hoy
- Development Coordinator
A Warrnambool local, Jason Hoy leads MPAA's Infrastructure Delivery Services, ensuring that projects meet compliance and timing requirements. With a background in civil engineering and project management, Jason is driven by a genuine passion for helping clients navigate complex processes. He takes pride in delivering projects efficiently and solving challenges pragmatically, always focused on making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for everyone involved.
Harrison Ernst
- Associate, Design
Harrison Ernst, part of MPAA since 2021, focuses on concept and sketch design for residential developments. His design work reflects his understanding of how the built environment influences daily life, shaped by experiences like his time studying in Japan. Harrison’s creative process is aligned with MPAA’s mission to craft spaces that resonate with people and their surroundings.
Lucas Marwood
- Project Coordinator, Design
Since joining MPAA in 2021, Lucas has focused on design development and contract documentation. With a background in cabinet making, Lucas brings an eye for detail and a growing depth of construction knowledge to his role.
Andrea Benfell - Studio Assistant
Andrea Benfell ensures that clients have a smooth experience from start to finish. Her attention to detail and focus on efficiency enhance MPAA’s operations, ensuring projects move seamlessly through the planning process. Andrea’s role is integral to maintaining the high standard of service that MPAA prides itself on.
Pippin - Office Dog Extraordinaire
Pippin, our playful wire-haired dachshund, is named after the adventurous hobbit from The Lord of the Rings. Just like her namesake, she’s cheeky, curious, and always ready for fun. Whether greeting the team or sneaking treats, Pippin’s charm makes her the heart of the office.