Creating a more sustainable future for Northeast Health Wangaratta

Transforming everyday spaces

From brighter lighting to more reliable heating and cooling, the upgrades will improve the spaces where people receive care and staff work each day. The Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) worked with Northeast Health Wangaratta’s executive and facilities teams to explain the program, understand site needs and identify the most suitable upgrades. VIDA Health Project Manager, Energy Programs, Ian Winneke said the health service’s involvement was key to moving the project forward.

What this investment delivers

• Replace the chiller plant to improve heating and cooling efficiency
• Replace more than 3,000 lights with high-efficiency LEDs across 16 sites
• Install 900 kilowatt-peak of solar across 12 sites
• Upgrade building controls to improve plant operation and user comfort
• Transition gas hot-water systems to electric heat pumps
• Install electric vehicle chargers and tenancy sub-metering in designated areas

Pictured from left to right: Kieran McLean (Director, FG Advisory), Libby Fifis (CEO, Northeast Health), Matthew Charleston (Operations Director, Facilities and Maintenance, Northeast Health), Kim Bennetts (Executive Director, Northeast Health), Ian Winneke (Project Manager VHBA), James Bickerdike (Energy Engineer, FG Advisory).

Lasting benefits for people and the planet

Every energy-saving measure contributes to something bigger: a healthier environment and more sustainable public health system for future generations.

For the Wangaratta community, the benefits will be felt closer to home. Modern heating, cooling, lighting and building-control systems will help create more comfortable environments for patients, families and staff.

How VHBA delivers these upgrades

VHBA works with health services and specialist delivery partners to identify the right energy-saving measures and coordinate their design and installation. VHBA also helps plan the works around clinical activities to minimise disruption to patients, staff and essential services.

Read more about environmental sustainability at VHBA to learn how we're helping health services across Victoria become more sustainable, efficient and ready for the future.