Wasek the Crane takes a final bow after helping build the BBHR's tower

Grampians Health has farewelled the 48-metre tower crane named after Oncologist and Research Lead Associate Professor Wasek Faisal as it completes its important role in the $655 million Ballarat Base Hospital Redevelopment.
 
Wasek the Crane, which has been a prominent feature of the Ballarat skyline for the past 12 months and an integral part of the construction of the hospital’s new main tower, was dismantled at the weekend.
 
The crane joined the construction team during Stage 3 of redevelopment, helping progress the seven-level main tower which includes a new emergency department, a contemporary theatre suite and an additional 100 inpatient and short-stay beds.
 
Chief Redevelopment and Infrastructure Officer Veronica Furnier said Grampians Health staff voted to name one of the project's cranes after Associate Professor Wasek Faisal in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cancer care, research and innovation across the region.
 
"Wasek has established himself as a leading figure in lung cancer clinical research and patient care, helping ensure people living in regional communities can access world-class treatment closer to home," Ms Furnier said.
 
"His dedication to advancing cancer treatment through innovative research and clinical leadership is truly commendable.
 
"Like the redevelopment itself, Wasek's work is helping build a stronger future for healthcare in our region. The crane has become a symbol of progress, innovation and hope, reflecting the impact he continues to have on the lives of patients and their families."
 
Associate Professor Faisal said he was honoured to have been recognised by colleagues through the crane naming initiative.
 
"I am passionate about ensuring people in regional communities have access to the latest cancer treatments and research opportunities without needing to travel far from home," Associate Professor Faisal said.
 
"The redevelopment represents a significant investment in the future health of our region and it's been a privilege to be associated with such an important project."
 
As Wasek the Crane prepares to leave the construction site, its legacy will remain embedded in the hospital tower it helped build and in the future of healthcare it represents for generations of patients across the Grampians region.
 
Wasek the Crane stood proudly onsite with the Ashton and Grant Crane and Josie the Crane.
 
The Ashton and Grant crane, named after Ashton Kline, an Undergraduate Clinical Placement Coordinator with the Nursing and Midwifery Education Unit and Registered Nurse, and Grant Monks, Switchboard Operator at Grampians Health and Kidney Health Australia Ambassador, was dismantled in March. Both Ashton and Grant have turned personal tragedy into lives of service, compassion, empathy and advocacy.
 
Josie the Crane, named after Josie Ashmore, a former nurse, educator and volunteer whose quiet acts of kindness continue to positively impact patient care at Grampians Health, remains onsite.
 
Construction of the hospital’s new multi-level tower remains on track for completion in 2027.