Webuild, as part of the Spark Joint Venture, is proud to announce the second tunnel boring machine (TBM) has commenced tunnelling works at the North East Link in Melbourne’s northeast. 

The launch of the second machine, named TBM Gillian, follows the successful launch of TBM Zelda, which began tunnelling in August 2024.  

Together, these state-of-the-art TBMs are helping excavate three-lane twin tunnels, each approximately 6.5 kilometres in length, between Watsonia and Bulleen.  

The assembly of the TBMs was a highly intricate and detailed effort, led by a skilled team of engineers and construction experts. More than 30 super loads and 170 oversize trucks delivered parts of the TBMs to the project earlier in the year. The assembly of both machines involved over 10,000 tonnes of steel, 4 tonnes of welding wire, and dozens of lifts and installations. 

One of the key achievements of the assembly stage was the successful lift of TBM Gillian’s 174 tonne cutterhead, which represented one of the last major lifts for the project.  

These massive TBMs span 15.6 metres in diameter, stretch over 90 metres in length, and weigh more than 4,000 tonnes. 

In an Australian first, North East Link has partnered with Yurringa Energy, an Aboriginal owned renewable energy provider that will supply 137.5 GWh green power to the project– equivalent to the annual output of over 91,000 solar panels. This means the TBMs are being powered by 100% renewable energy.  

North East Link is a transformative infrastructure project set to significantly enhance Melbourne’s transport network. Currently it is Victoria’s largest ever road project, and once complete, the tunnels will be the longest road tunnels in the state.  

The project aims to provide a seamless connection between the Eastern Freeway and the M80 Ring Road. It’s expected to take approximately 15,000 trucks off local roads, alleviate  congestion, reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes, and improve safety for motorists across the region.   

This landmark project is creating thousands of jobs, stimulating economic growth, and delivering lasting benefits to the local community.