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GOING GREEN IN BRISBANE AUSTRALIA’S FIRST 5 STAR GREEN STAR DESIGNED AGED CARE HOME
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ockpool Residential Aged Care’s new Carseldine development, located 30 minutes north of Brisbane CBD, is Australia’s first 5 Star Green Star designed aged care home.
Innovation and sustainability have long underpinned Rockpool’s approach to aged care. The 150-bed Carseldine project, which is scheduled to open in mid-2022, underwent rigorous design, construction and operations assessments before achieving the prestigious rating. Rockpool Residential Aged Care CEO Mel Argent said the decision to attempt the 5 Star Green Star design rating was not taken lightly. “There are considerable costs involved, however, the legacy for our residents, staff, the environment and the efficient long-term operating costs easily make the entire project worthwhile,” Ms Argent said. “To achieve the 5 Star Green Star design rating, every aspect of the Carseldine project must be evaluated. “Everything is constantly being assessed and measured including energy and water consumption to ensure we meet predetermined targets.
walls, while the majority of our reinforced steel was made using energy saving techniques.” Ms Argent said the innovative and green building will deliver long-term benefits to Rockpool’s residents once complete, not just in the comfort and amenity but in the knowledge of their legacy to future generations. “We went beyond the acoustic requirements outlined in the National Construction Code, which means residents will enjoy a quiet and peaceful environment,” Ms Argent said. “The design and construction of the building has also factored in the potential impacts of climate change and significant temperature variations. “Just because the building and construction materials are green doesn’t mean we’re forgoing any of the creature comforts our residents love. “Large, spacious, self-contained rooms will provide residents with their own private sanctuary, but with enough space to host and entertain family and friends.
“The Carseldine site will be gas-free, with the electricityonly solution complemented by hundreds of solar panels and several Electric Vehicle Charging Stations on-site. “We sourced our timber from fully compliant chains of supply and custody, and used recycled materials in the concrete slabs and
Rockpool’s Carseldine development is Australia’s first 5 Star Green Star aged care home. Continued on page 90
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