Transformative education redevelopment by commercial school builders in Colac

BDH Constructions, leading commercial school builders in Colac, proudly delivered the landmark redevelopment of the former Colac Specialist School—now Lake Colac School—into a modern, inclusive, and future-focused learning environment. With a total investment of $17.1 million, this transformative project revitalised a brownfield site at the historic Colac High School location on Murray Street, setting a new benchmark for educational infrastructure in the region.

Heritage building modernisation

Originally opened in 1912, the site’s heritage building had been dormant and vandalised for over a decade before restoration works began. BDH Constructions retained and revitalised the structure, integrating modern educational and staff spaces within its historic fabric. Key upgrades included:

• Staff areas, library, and specialised art and music rooms
• Dedicated spaces for woodwork and food technology
• Early Education Program (EEP) facilities, including classrooms, food prep areas, offices, change-access restrooms, storerooms, and a secure play area
• New administration wing, housing meeting rooms, data/comms room, offices, a multipurpose space, and fitness facilities
• Upgraded power, communications, and water supply to support long-term infrastructure needs

New learning facilities

BDH Constructions also delivered two new mirror-image classroom buildings designed to support contemporary educational practices. Each includes:

• General learning spaces and consultation rooms
• Quiet study zones and sensory rooms for students with additional needs

External works and landscaping

• A comprehensive suite of external upgrades was also undertaken, including:
• A new car park and bus loop with shelter for improved access and safety
• Preservation of heritage trees, especially mature elms flanking the heritage building
• Landscaped zones including a horticulture area, wet play areas, and differentiated spaces for junior and general play
• New fire ring mains for site-wide fire safety compliance

Delivered with care by commercial school builders Colac trusts to blend tradition with modern learning environments

This redevelopment reflects BDH Constructions’ skill in balancing heritage sensitivity with functional design, ensuring the new Lake Colac School is fully equipped to meet the needs of students and staff alike.

This project is a prime example of how commercial school builders Colac communities rely on can deliver transformative educational facilities that honour the past while building for the future.

Contact us to discuss your next project.