Cohuna Residential Aged Care Facility

As we continue our role with the Victorian Health Building Authority on the Regional and Rural Public Sector Residential Aged Care Services Revitalization Strategy. This project aims to replace outdated public sector facilities with purpose-built, contemporary facilities with single bedrooms and private ensuites that promote dignity, privacy, and independence. 

This project features several key engineering innovations, including a ventilation system design that provides full fresh air and increased exhaust airflow in residents' bedrooms while maintaining negative air pressure to control infections. 

Our team also managed an evacuation strategy designed to meet the challenges of the staged construction program while keeping the existing facility fully operational. Drawing on our experience on similar projects, we tailored a fire engineering strategy that meets the specific needs of the building occupants and site requirements. 

Co-located and operated by the Cohuna District Hospital, the project team also overcame challenges in integrating the new engineering services with the existing infrastructure, ensuring continuous hospital operations throughout construction. The new link bridge connecting the aged care facility and the hospital enhances operational efficiency, and the existing nursing home will be refurbished for staff accommodation and administration, supporting the government's sustainability goals.