Building a Safer Future for Catherine McAuley Catholic College

A New Educational Landmark for Port Stephens

Located in the heart of Medowie, New South Wales, Catherine McAuley Catholic College is a modern secondary school dedicated to fostering confident, agile, and reflective learners.

Inspired by the Mercy tradition, the college serves the growing Port Stephens community, offering a cutting-edge learning environment designed to prepare students for the future.
As a newly constructed, state-of-the-art facility, the college incorporates innovative architecture, advanced learning spaces, and sustainable infrastructure to support a dynamic educational experience.

However, ensuring fire safety across such a large and sophisticated campus required a specialised ventilation solution, one that could seamlessly integrate with the school’s modern design while providing reliable protection for students, staff, and property.

The Challenge

Catherine McAuley Catholic College, as a newly constructed state-of-the-art learning facility, required a smoke and heat ventilation system that could ensure the safety of its students, staff, and property in the event of a fire. This solution had to meet stringent fire compliance standards while complementing the school’s advanced HVAC systems and overall design.

The scale of the project presented unique challenges, with the school encompassing multiple learning areas and communal spaces. The ventilation system needed to provide comprehensive coverage, adapting seamlessly to the building’s layout and operational requirements.

Furthermore, the system had to integrate with Building Management Systems (BMS) and Fire Indication Panels (FIP) to support remote management and facilitate quick response during emergencies.

The Solution

Airocle supplied and installed our 8 Series roof ventilators, engineered to enhance smoke and heat clearance during fire events. These ventilators provide a natural extraction of smoke, heat, and harmful gases, helping to reduce fire spread, minimise damage, and improve visibility for firefighters to locate the source of the fire.

The 8 Series offers flexibility in operation, with options for manual, pneumatic (air pressure), or electrical functionality. Its integration capabilities with automatic and manual override modes allow for seamless connectivity with BMS and FIP systems. This ensures real-time remote management and reliable support for first responders during critical moments.

By incorporating our 8 Series ventilators, Catherine McAuley Catholic College now benefits from an advanced fire safety solution that safeguards its state-of-the-art campus while maintaining comfort and operational efficiency.

A Safer Learning Environment for Future Generations

Fire safety is an essential part of creating a secure, future-proof educational facility, and Catherine McAuley Catholic College’s investment in advanced ventilation technology ensures that students and staff are protected for years to come.

With the 8 Series ventilation system in place, the college now enjoys:

• Improved Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness
• Enhanced Indoor Air Quality & Thermal Comfort
• Seamless Integration with Smart Building Systems
• A Sustainable, Low-Maintenance Ventilation Solution

This project showcases how modern engineering can work hand in hand with education and architecture, delivering a comprehensive fire safety solution that aligns with the school’s vision of excellence and innovation.