Peninsula University Hospital in Frankston has completed its first full operational day after a coordinated transfer moved about 220 patients and mental health consumers into the new clinical services tower on Tuesday 20 January.
Bayside Health’s Peninsula Care Group said the move was completed ahead of schedule, with continuity of care maintained throughout the day.
Chief Executive of Bayside Health Peninsula Care Group, Associate Professor Helen Cooper, said the transition reflected staff effort in Frankston.
“The smooth move of our patients and consumers into the new Peninsula University Hospital is a testament to the wonderful dedication, professionalism and expertise of the team in Frankston.”
“This is a proud and exciting moment for our staff, patients, volunteers and the local community.”
The operational start follows the official opening of the new hospital earlier in the week, which STPL News reported on ahead of the transition.
Read: Peninsula University Hospital Official Opening
First day milestones inside the new tower
Bayside Health said the transfer began at 7.30am, with the first birth and the first surgical procedure occurring before 10am.
A baby boy was born at 34 weeks in the new integrated maternity and birthing suite on Level 5, with Bayside Health saying mother and baby were doing well and supported by specialist maternity and neonatal teams.
New mother and Bayside Health staff member Carmen Simpson said the timing was unexpected and the experience inside the new facility was positive.
“We were expecting to deliver in February so being the first patient in Peninsula University Hospital was amazing.”
“The move was all very organised, everyone was fantastic. The new hospital is just so beautiful.”
“There are really nice views, even being in the new birthing suites was a really nice calming experience.”
Earlier in the morning, Bayside Health said the first surgical procedure was undertaken in the new Level 2 Surgical Suite, led by Clinical Director of Surgery Associate Professor Peter Evans.
What has changed for patients and visitors
Bayside Health said the new tower is now fully operational.
Patients, visitors and staff can access the main entrance via Gate 2 on Yuille Street.
The refurbished emergency department is accessed via Gate 3 on Hastings Road.
Planning and continuity of care
Bayside Health’s Chief Operating Officer, Jana Gazarek, said the move involved extensive preparation focused on safety and continuity of care.
“Many hours of detailed planning have gone into ensuring the safety and continuity of care for our patients as we completed the move into the new hospital.”
She also thanked staff, volunteers and the community.
“I would like to thank all our staff and volunteers involved in today’s move, as well as our patients and community for their patience and understanding while we have undertaken this significant and very positive change.”
Why the move matters for Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula
Peninsula University Hospital is the new name for Frankston Hospital, first announced in July 2025, with Bayside Health citing its partnership with Monash University and an increased focus on teaching, education and research.
Bayside Health said the redevelopment includes capacity for an additional 130 beds, 15 new surgical theatres, expanded maternity, mental health, oncology and children’s services, a dedicated paediatrics area, a Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs hub within the refurbished emergency department, and a new helipad atop the tower.
