Final two tunnel boring machines on Metro Tunnel project begin works

To progress works on the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project the final two Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) have been launched.

The third TBM, Millie, named after Victoria’s first female MP Millie Peacock is now creating the first 1.7 kilometre tunnel between Anzac Station and the eastern entrance at South Yarra.

TBM alice, the fourth boring machine on the project, is named after wartime medical hero Alice Appleford and is due to begin work on the second tunnel from the site under St Kilda Road shortly.

For the continuation of works during COVID-19, the Metro Tunnel Project has strict protocols in place for the safety of workers.

The project is expected to create around 7000 jobs over its life and will help to keep Victorians in work and boost the economy during the pandemic recovery.

Components for the two TBMs arrived onsite in late 2019, assembly started in January and both machines have undergone comprehensive commissioning and testing.

The first two TBMs, Joan and Meg, broke through at the western tunnel entrance in February 2020 after completing a 1.2 kilometre section of the tunnel.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan says Victoria’s Big Build will be vital as the state recovers after the pandemic has passed.

“The Metro Tunnel team are doing an amazing job finding practical, safe ways of working, so we can continue building this urgently needed project in challenging circumstances,” she says.

The Victorian Government is working closely with our Big Build workforce, construction partners and unions to ensure works on our vital road and rail projects can continue safely.

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