Construction is now underway on a significant new health and wellbeing development at Essendon Fields, marking another milestone in the evolution of the precinct as one of Melbourne’s leading mixed-use destinations.

Following a sod-turning ceremony on 6 August, works have commenced at 74-76 Hargrave Avenue on a 4,054-square-metre development that will bring together two established health-focused operators: Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) and Elite Training and Sports Medicine.

Supporting a growing community

The purpose-built development has been designed to meet the long-term needs of both businesses while expanding access to specialist veterinary care, health and fitness facilities, and allied health services for Melbourne’s north-west.

Essendon Fields CEO Brendan Pihan said the project reflects the precinct’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that responds to the needs of its growing community.

“Today marks more than the commencement of construction. It’s another important step in the continued evolution of Essendon Fields as a destination where people can work, connect and access high-quality services close to home.”

“This development brings together two outstanding operators that share our commitment to community wellbeing. From world-class emergency veterinary care through to premium health and fitness services, these facilities will deliver lasting value for our community while continuing to strengthen the diversity of the Essendon Fields precinct.”

The development continues Essendon Fields’ long-term investment in community infrastructure, complementing the precinct’s growing mix of commercial, retail, aviation, hospitality and lifestyle offerings.

Expanded specialist veterinary care

A key component of the development is a major expansion of Animal Referral Hospital’s existing Essendon Fields presence. The new purpose-built specialist and emergency veterinary facility will span approximately 1,450 square metres and significantly increase the hospital’s capacity to care for pets across Melbourne’s north-west.

The expanded hospital will include:

• 11 consultation rooms
• Four operating theatres
• A dedicated critical care unit
• Advanced diagnostic imaging technology including CT, MRI, fluoroscopy and digital X-ray
• Dedicated oncology and endoscopy procedure rooms
• Purpose-designed wards for dogs, cats and exotic animals
• An undercover exercise area to support patient recovery and wellbeing

Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ARH has served local pet owners for more than a decade. The expanded facility will improve access to emergency and specialist veterinary services while increasing the hospital’s capacity to care for more patients.

A new destination for fitness, recovery and wellbeing

Joining the development will be a new headquarters for Elite Training and Sports Medicine, creating a premium 2,200-square-metre health, fitness and wellness destination.

Known for working with everyone from everyday fitness enthusiasts to elite athletes, the new facility will bring together training, recovery and allied health services under one roof. Amenities will include:

• State-of-the-art gym facilities
• Magnesium hot and cold plunge pools
• Infrared and traditional saunas
• Physiotherapy and remedial massage services
• Reformer Pilates and yoga
• Group fitness classes
• Dedicated allied health practitioners
• A healthy café
• Contemporary co-working spaces

Elite Training and Sports Medicine Director Michael Varkopoulos said the new facility would create a destination focused on health, recovery and community connection.

“Our vision is to create more than a gym. We’re building a destination where people can train, recover, connect and access a range of allied health services in one location.”

Staying informed during construction

Construction is now underway, with both facilities set to strengthen Essendon Fields’ health and wellbeing offering upon completion.

For the latest project information, construction notices and progress updates, visit the Development Works page.