22 January 2009

Emergency Engineering

Engineered to tackle Queenslandâ€™s disaster response and communications needs.

The new Queensland Emergency Operations Centre (QEOC) in Kedron Park will not only be a highly functional communications centre, but hidden behind walls, above your head and beneath your feet will be a marvel of sustainable engineering.

A project by architectural firm Architectus in conjunction with consulting engineers Medland Metropolis, the QEOC will be a world-class facility, meeting the highest standards in communication and disaster co-ordination.

The project hopes to gain 5-star Green Star rating, using initiatives such as full water recycling, rainwater harvesting, low energy lighting and on-site power generation.

However, the complexities of co-ordinating these ESD initiatives with the high-tech, intricate communication, hydraulic and electrical systems is where Medland Metropolis step in.

According to Chris Medland, CEO of Medland Metropolis Consulting Engineers, the QEOC brings together engineering’s big three in one package.

“It is a unique combination of innovative, complex engineering to ensure essential emergency services for disaster management, as well as innovative sustainability features, all packaged with a great aesthetic,” he says.

The 500kwE natural gas fire micro turbines will help to produce clean power and provide peak load reduction and redundancy from the power grid. The heat produced by these turbines will provide domestic hot water and heat the centre’s swimming pool.

The QEOC also aims to provide a calm and relaxing environment for people working in high-stress disaster response. Due for completion in 2010, this new centre of operations will provide the Queensland Department of Emergency Services with a best practice facility.

Medland Metropolis
www.medland.com.au

Architectus
architectus.com.au

DES QEOC