Architectus’ Castlemaine hub takes shape

The Castlemaine Community Health and Learning Hub is officially underway, marking a significant milestone in addressing critical skills shortages in the healthcare sector while supporting regional communities.

The project is a joint effort involving Architectus, the client team, and Donald Cant Watts Corke (DCWC). Together, they aim to create a space that not only addresses the healthcare skills gap but also strengthens regional resilience.

The project, a collaboration between Bendigo TAFE, Dhelkaya Health, and the local community, was launched with a ceremonial start led by The Hon Maree Edwards MP. 

“Jayden Peacock, Senior Associate and Bendigo TAFE alumni says it’s an honour to work with the institution once again, after successfully delivering the Bendigo Tafe City Campus Revitalisation project,” shares the practice.

“Echoing his sentiments, Principal Diana (Rosenthal) Thompson, says the renovation of this important facility in Castlemaine will provide much needed spaces to educate regional healthcare workers near their homes and communities.

“Working alongside the client team, and Donald Cant Watts Corke (DCWC), we’re looking forward to seeing the building come to life.”
This exciting development involves transforming an existing hospital wing into a state-of-the-art training facility. The hub will include simulated hospital, aged care, and home care settings, providing practical learning environments for future healthcare professionals.
How do we address skills shortages in the health sector while creating opportunities for regional communities to thrive?

“At Bendigo TAFE, we believe collaboration is the key. That’s why we’re partnering with Dhelkaya Health to establish a new Community Health and Learning Hub in Castlemaine. Today celebrates the beginning of the construction, set to be completed mid-way through 2025,” shares Bendigo TAFE.

“With a $4 million investment from the Victorian Government, this innovative space will provide state-of-the-art training, supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals to live, learn, and work locally.

“Designed by award-winning Architectus, and constructed by majority Indigenous-owned company Barpa Construction Services, the Hub is more than a facility—it’s a commitment to fostering skills, strengthening communities, and building a sustainable future for regional Victoria.

“Thank you to The Hon Maree Edwards MP for leading the announcement, as we all remain committed to investing our resources into regional Victoria to ensure accessible education for all.

“As construction begins, we’re excited to see this vision come to life.”
Barpa Construction Services, a majority Indigenous-owned company, has been entrusted with delivering this transformative project. Their involvement underscores a commitment to fostering local skills and supporting communities across regional Victoria.

As construction progresses, the Castlemaine Community Health and Learning Hub is set to become a vital resource for training and empowering healthcare professionals in regional Victoria.
 

Image: Bendigo TAFE CEO Sally Curtain and Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race were joined by Member for Bendigo West the Hon Maree Edwards MP on site to mark the start of works / Bendigo TAFE