If you’ve ever driven past Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Woolloongabba, you might have noticed a curious red structure perched on top of the building.
Read: Construction Set for $350-M Vertical Expansion of Princess Alexandra Hospital in Woolloongabba
It sparked curiosity on a Reddit thread recently, where locals speculated on its purpose. The conversation revealed a mix of practical insights, personal anecdotes, and a discussion on the hospital’s future.
One commenter, a former junior doctor at PAH, identified it as a lift to the helipad, linking directly to the Emergency Department. They shared a nostalgic story: “I still remember on my last night ward call shift as a resident, I went up there with three of my friends to watch the sunrise during a quiet moment. It was lovely. Then a bloody chopper arrived, and we all got a serving.”
Another commenter added an interesting engineering detail: “It’s a lift. Also, it’s built in a way that can withstand the impact of a helicopter that has a mechanical failure as it’s landing or crashing.”
But the thread didn’t just focus on the lift. It also turned to the hospital’s future. Some users speculated about the site’s potential role in the PA Hospital’s recently announced $748 million expansion project.
A Major Upgrade for Brisbane’s Healthcare
The expansion project at PAH promises significant improvements to the hospital’s infrastructure and services. The upgrades include:
- New inpatient beds
- Extensions and renovations to existing buildings
- New cancer and kidney disease treatment services
- Expanded health services
A key part of the expansion will be the addition of five new levels above the Emergency Department, creating space for 249 extra beds. This development marks a significant step forward for the hospital and the broader Brisbane community.
In July 2024, the hospital’s construction program was officially launched with a traditional water blessing, a ceremony that holds spiritual significance. Jagera elder Uncle Steven Coghill led the welcome to country and the blessing, symbolizing a fresh start, rebirth, and good-will for a safe construction process.
Dr Brian Bell, Acting Executive Director of PA Hospital, emphasised the importance of the ceremony. “This is a huge milestone in the life of PA, and we embrace this traditional custom of the Jagera and Turrbal people for the best possible beginning to the project. This is a great step for our community by beginning with the custom of Australia’s first inhabitants,” he said.
The Future Looks Bright
The ongoing expansion of PAH reflects the hospital’s commitment to meeting the growing healthcare needs of Brisbane’s population. While the red structure atop the hospital serves its functional purpose as a lift to the helipad, it’s also a symbol of the hospital’s role as a vital hub for emergency care and its bright future as a state-of-the-art healthcare facility.
Read: Annerley Incident Highlights Need for Better Police First Aid Equipment
Next time you spot that red thing, you’ll know it’s more than just a curious structure. It’s a gateway to lifesaving care and a reminder of the hospital’s ever-evolving story.
Published 16-January-2025
