A reflection on the past 10 years of digital engineering for tunnel projects and emerging technologies for the next generation of underground infrastructure.

Overview

Since the start of Sydney’s infrastructure boom over the last decade, digital engineering has become a significant part of project coordination and deliverables. As clients, contractors and designers continue to develop their digital capability, detailed and fully integrated 3D models have become a standard requirement for major tunnel infrastructure. This presentation explores the evolution of digital modelling requirements, how this data is providing benefits to project teams, and how to address some of the latest challenges encountered in developing and maintaining digital models. Emerging technologies are also discussed as we reflect on the next decade of digital engineering.

Please also join us for the Australian Tunnelling Society NSW chapter’s annual general meeting, where we will discuss the year’s events, and our plans for 2026.

Timings

5:30pm Light Refreshments

6:00pm Annual General Meeting

6:15pm Main Presentation

7:00pm Discussion and Drinks

7:30pm Event Conclusion

Speaker

Mark Sheffield

Technical Director, Tunnelling, Aurecon

Mark is a Technical Director at Aurecon with over 30years in tunnelling and heavy civil engineering. He has extensive experience in major underground projects around the world from feasibility through to implementation and construction in a variety of ground conditions and challenging urban environments.​ Mark’s recent experience has included the delivery of the tunnel design for WestConnex Stage 3A and Western Harbour Tunnel, where he was as the Mined Tunnel Discipline Leader overseeing development of the detailed design, and was heavily involved in digital engineering and 3D modelling for both projects.​