Torque Orthodontics Mackay brace for bold renovation on Brisbane Street

The application includes a renovated clinic to cater for rural oral health complete with two new units for travelling patients or medical staff. See the designs here.

A Mackay specialty dentist has applied for a bold new revamp of its CBD clinic to host rural patients travelling to care for their teeth.

Torque Orthodontics has served the Mackay region’s dental needs since 1995 from its clinic at 33 Brisbane Street.

Plans submitted to Mackay Regional Council for consideration show an upgraded healthcare facility fronting two short-term accommodation units.

The design from Brisbane-based Reddog Architects features a branded facade that overlooks and makes better use of the street frontage.

Torque Orthodontics’ proposed new healthcare facility on Brisbane Street. Photo: Contributed

Documents say the proposed development’s “roof design provides high quality architectural design and visual interest”.

“The shell of the (existing) building will be re-used (including) the slab, columns, beams, and roof structure.

“(Plans show an) orthodontic tenancy in the front section of the building.

Back of Torque Orthodontics proposed new healthcare facility on Brisbane Street. Photo: Contributed

“To the rear of the building are two 2-bedroom units which will be used for short-term accommodation for visiting medical staff and/or patients.”

Orthodontist Dr Peter Monckton previously told this publication that his clinic began with just one chair and staff member.

“I’d certainly like to leave a legacy in the place and we’ve been looking for the right person (to do a redesign)”, Dr Monckton said in 2015.

The Torque Orthodontics team. Photo: Contributed

Plans for the clinic show six dentist chairs, three consulting rooms, and three private treatment rooms, as well as a kids play corner near the reception.

Two dedicated sick bays abut the large staff and meeting room.

Both short-term units at the back of the clinic have semi-paved courtyards, plus a bath and ensuite.

Layout of Torque Orthodontics proposed renovation at 33 Brisbane Street, Mackay. Photo: Contributed

The renovated building will extend into the northwest corner of the site, with the remaining space used by a 35-space carpark.

“The proposed orthodontic clinic and short-term accommodation will provide a necessary service to the region as well as an alternative and convenient form of accommodation for those travelling to receive orthodontic treatment,” documents state.