All four tunnel boring machines (TBMs) on the Melbourne Metro Tunnel project are in the ground, ensuring that the project is on track to be finished in 2025, a year ahead of schedule.
Premier Daniel Andrews said that having all TBMs working at the same time was a milestone for the project.
“We’re making significant progress on this landmark project – with all four tunnel boring machines in the ground.”
The news comes as other significant works are completed. At Parkville station, excavation of the station box at Grattan Street is complete and 50 steel columns are being installed at the under-construction State Library Station.
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan thanked those who were working on the project.
“The team have worked around-the-clock to get the four tunnel boring machines underway, while observing social distancing and keeping workers safe.”
Andrews echoed that these works would have an economy-boosting impact.
“Big construction projects like the Metro Tunnel are more important than ever as we rebuild from the pandemic – kickstarting our economy and supporting thousands of jobs.”
Of the four TBMs, two are tunnelling from the Ardern site in North Melbourne towards Parkville. TBMs Meg and Joan, named after Australian cricketer Meg Lanning and Victoria’s first female Premier Joan Kirner, are completing the two parallel tunnels.
At the eastern portal TBM Millie and TBM Alice, named after Millie Peacock – Victoria’s first female member of Parliament – and Alice Appleford, wartime nurse, are excavating the twin tunnels from Anzac Station to South Yarra.