When the Wonthaggi Hospital Expansion (WHE) opens to the community in December, Bass Coast Health (BCH) is proud to say consumers will be able to find their way around the new facility with ease.

Signs are installed at strategic locations, directing consumers to the service they need. Everyone can take heart in knowing the signs have been tested by fellow community members, who have been an integral part of the planning and design of the expansion.

Community members and consumers have spent hours working on the WHE and their input has been beneficial in all aspects of the design, from colour palettes to model of care and carparking.

This week the valued members of BCH’s Community Advisory Committee spent several hours with Lou Sparkes, BCH Executive Director WHE Commissioning and Lynne Winterburn, BCH Director Support Services to provide valuable input into wayfinding at the WHE, internally and externally.

They toured all floors of the WHE and inspected signage in the Emergency Department, Theatre and the Surgical Ward. CAC members also inspected the carpark and external buildings to provide feedback to improve BCH’s wayfinding strategy.

“As always, they came up with fantastic ideas and gave a great perspective as community members and users of the service. We are so lucky to have them on our team at BCH,” Ms Sparkes said.

The WHE will include large photographs showing local icons, such as the famous trestle bridge at Kilcunda and coal mining scenes, as well as Indigenous artwork, to celebrate the Bass Coast’s rich heritage and BCH’s pride in being part of the local community.

Everyone will be invited to a community open day to celebrate the opening of the WHE, with tours and more. Stay tuned for more information.