ACCIONA recently hosted Dr Martin Herrenknecht at key Suburban Connect sites in Melbourne.

As founder and Chairman of the Board of Management of Herrenkecht, the tunnel boring machines’ manufacturer, the visit provided an opportunity to update Dr Herrenkneckt on tunnelling progress and the arrival of the first tunnel boring machine components set to support Victoria’s longest tunnels. 

Dr Herrenknecht toured the Clarinda site to see construction of the launch facility and learn about upcoming works that will prepare the project for its first flying launch later this year.

His visit marked an important milestone as the first two of four Herrenknecht TBMs successfully completed factory acceptance testing in China before being deconstructed and shipped to Australia. 

During his tour, Dr Herrenknecht inspected the newly arrived cutterhead for the first Suburban Connect TBM and discussed the specialist systems that will support continuous excavation across the project’s twin tunnel drives.

The visit underscored the long running relationship between Herrenknecht and the Australian tunnelling sector, as well as the global expertise supporting the build. 

The Suburban Rail Loop East tunnelling program will be delivered using four Herrenknecht TBMs that will excavate more than 16 kilometres of tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley.

The arrival of the first machine components represents a key step in preparing the sites for mechanical assembly and commissioning later in the year. 

The visit strengthens industry partnerships as ACCIONA prepares for the next major phase of tunnelling activity, contributing to the delivery of essential infrastructure for Victoria’s growing communities.