Skip to main content

‘Engineering feat’ connects SMHRU with GCUH

The installation of a new linkway connecting the Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU) with Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH)’s F Block has marked a significant milestone for the project, which is due to be completed at the end of 2024.

Project Director Cyriac Mukkada said the almost 30-metre enclosed linkway would not only facilitate critical operational efficiencies but would also embed the new mental health unit within the broader hospital campus.

“The enclosed walkway will provide passage for vital services including food delivery, cleaners, visitors and maintenance between the main GCUH building, F Block – where our existing Mental Health wards are located – and the new SMHRU,” Cyriac said.

According to Cyriac, the installation was a feat of engineering precision and logistical planning.

"The entire linkway was constructed on-site and it took about four to five hours to lift the structure into place using a 300T crane, " Cyriac said.

“This task required meticulous calculation, coordination and skilled handling – it was quite spectacular to watch as the linkway was suspended in mid-air, gliding into position.”

Once fully operational, the SMHRU will be the first of its kind for the Gold Coast.

Consisting of 40 bedrooms, the new facility will provide mental health treatment and rehabilitation services to consumers with severe and complex mental health disorders to assist in their recovery and support their transition to living in the community.

Recruitment underway

Scheduled to open its first 20 beds in early 2025, the SMRHU has begun recruiting for the new facility.

“We’ve just recruited Tania Thomas as Acting Nursing Director and Dr Shweta Sharma as Medical Director, both of whom are highly experienced and esteemed clinical leaders,” Principal Project Officer Rebecca Durdev said.

“Opportunities to apply for both clinical and non-clinical roles within the SMHRU service will soon be available, including transfer at level options for mental health nurses”.

Keep an eye on SmartJobs for employment opportunities with SMHRU on the Gold Coast.


Last updated 20 Jun 2024