TBM Performance Optimization: Technical Approaches for Challenging Tunneling Environments
2025-06-12 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | ARUP Melbourne, Sky Park 1, Melbourne Quarter, 699 Collins Street, Victoria, 3008
Presentation overview
This presentation presents advanced TBM engineering approaches that address complex challenges in contemporary tunnelling projects. The seminar provides technical insights into proven design strategies for managing difficult geological conditions, improving excavation efficiency, and reducing project risks across infrastructure, mining, and pumped hydro applications.
The discussion explores key engineering concepts that enhance project outcomes, including advanced geological detection systems for improved ground characterization, innovative excavation mechanics that adapt to varying formations, integrated ground support solutions that optimize safety and progress rates, and refined mucking systems that increase overall efficiency. These technical approaches are demonstrated through detailed case studies from recent mining and pumped hydro TBM projects, illustrating how specific design decisions translate into measurable performance improvements and successful project delivery.
The presentation offers actionable engineering insights and validated approaches applicable to tunnel planning, TBM specification development, and solutions for challenging ground conditions. Technical and project management professionals involved in tunnelling operations will gain an understanding of methods that can be applied to enhance project performance.
Key technical takeaways:

Design principles for customizing TBMs to address diverse geological challenges in tunnel construction
Engineering solutions for optimizing excavation performance and construction efficiency in complex ground conditions
Case study analysis demonstrating the relationship between technical decisions and project outcomes in risk management

Note: This presentation will be held in person and online
Timings

5:30 PM Welcome and Networking
6:00 PM Presentation
6:45 PM Q&As and post presentation networking

Beverages and refreshments will be provided.
Speaker biography

Linran Hao is a Technical Lead at CREG with a background in mechanical engineering. He specializes in tunnel boring machines (TBMs) – the large machines used to dig tunnels underground.
Linran has worked in TBM design and development for many years. He has led the design and management of over 10 TBM projects around the world, giving him experience with different types of ground conditions and construction requirements in various countries.
He now focuses on developing, managing, and maintaining TBMs specifically for the Australian market. His main goal is to create tunnelling solutions that work more efficiently, use less energy, and provide better safety for workers and the public. Through his work, Linran helps ensure that Australia’s tunnel construction projects benefit from reliable, modern technology that meets the country’s specific needs.
ATS Victorian Chapter acknowledges the sponsorship by CREG.

Celebrating International Women in Engineering Day: “Together We Engineer”
2025-06-26 17:00 - 19:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Community Information Centre, Level 9, 60 Miller Street, North Sydney, NSW
Please note: this is a hybrid event so if you’re based in Sydney, please come along! There will be refreshments and the opportunity to network after the panel discussion.
The theme for International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2025 is “Together We Engineer”. This theme emphasises the importance of collaboration, inclusivity, and collective strength in shaping the future of engineering. It celebrates how women engineers across the globe are uniting to drive innovation, break down barriers, and create sustainable solutions that benefit communities worldwide.
Join us for the evening for an insightful panel discussion at Western Harbour Tunnel Office about “Inclusion in Tunnelling” with our wonderful speakers that include:
Isabel Wang, Senior Project Engineer – Cross Passages

Isabel Wang is a civil engineer with 15 years of field experience in the bridge, civil, and tunnelling industries, Isabel graduated with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from the University of Sydney and began her career as civil estimator, seizing the opportunity to move into a site-based engineer role. During this time, Isabel worked closely with site supervisors, subcontractors, and suppliers, navigating the daily hustle of machinery, drawings and construction crews. Isabel honed her technical skills and sparked her passion for leading teams, building a solid foundation towards Project Engineer, her current role as SPE and completion of an 8-month diploma course designed to advance the careers of female professionals. As a frontline leader, she has successfully managed a number of complex, billion-dollar projects for clients such as Transport for NSW and Sydney Metro. Her expertise in overseeing construction activities, coupled with her leadership focus on safety, efficiency, and quality, has been instrumental in her role. Her dedication and innovative problem-solving significantly contributed to the successful, ahead-of-schedule, and defect-free completion of the Sydney Olympic Park station box, which she is immensely proud of.
Raneen Nashi, Project Engineer – North Fire Suppression

Raneen Nashi is a mechanical engineer currently working as a Project Engineer on the Western Harbour Tunnel, where she is responsible for delivering the fire suppression system for the northern section. She began her tunnelling career on WestConnex 3A, gaining experience in both design and commissioning. Originally from Iraq, Raneen completed her mechanical engineering degree in Australia after beginning her studies in biomechanics. Her interest in infrastructure and complex systems led her into the tunnelling sector. With a diverse technical background and cross-disciplinary experience, she brings adaptability, a practical mindset, and a collaborative approach to delivering projects that benefit the wider community.
Evonna Dai, Project Engineer – Excavations

Evonna Dai is a Project Engineer currently working on the Southern Launch Cavern Excavation Team for the Western Harbour Tunnel. She holds a double degree in Civil Engineering and Architecture from the University of Sydney. After starting her career in residential construction, she transitioned into major infrastructure and tunnelling. The Western Harbour Tunnel marks her third tunnelling project, following her work on WestConnex 3A and the CTP projects. Each project has provided unique challenges and rewarding experiences that have shaped her growing expertise in the industry.
Christian D’Hondt- Construction Manager

Christian D’Hondt has a successful track record in delivering major underground infrastructure projects across a range of contract models, including Alliances, ECI, D&C, Construct Only, and ITC. He brings extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of underground construction, particularly in complex urban environments. Christian has worked with Tier 1 tunnelling contractors on projects ranging from $50 million to $3.2 billion. His experience includes TBMs, road headers, shaft excavations, conveyors, tunnel logistics, civil structures, mechanical and electrical fit-outs, live rail interface works, and the commissioning and handover of underground infrastructure
This event will be both in-person and available to attend online.

Early Career CPD: shaping the future of tunnelling
2025-07-01 05:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Sydney) | VIC
Overview
The tunnelling industry in Australia is experiencing significant growth, and as an early career engineer, now is the perfect time to build a comprehensive understanding of what this sector involves. This session invites three experienced professionals from the tunnelling sector, each at different career stages, to provide their perspective on entering the industry; highlighting the challenges they’ve faced, the skills they’ve developed, and the invaluable lessons they’ve learned along the way. From graduating into the industry to managing complex projects, you’ll hear about their real-world experiences and the strategies they used to overcome obstacles and thrive in this sector.
This session will support young engineers in developing a strong foundation of knowledge for the sector. Attendees will gain practical advice based on lived experiences, develop an understanding of the future trends in the industry and learn what opportunities lie ahead as the sector continues to evolve.
Who should attend?
This webinar is suited to young engineers looking to develop an understanding of the tunnelling sector and gain from industry experiences.
Event series
This webinar is part of the Young Engineers Australia (YEA) Early Career CPD series. Events will take place on the following dates:

Thursday 29 May 2025, 1.00 pm – 1.45 pm AEST, In the Works: sharing stories of skills in practise
Tuesday 3 June 2025, 5.00 pm – 6.00 pm AEST, Early Career CPD: innovative engineering – problem solving in high pressure environments

Previous sessions in this series are available on EA OnDemand.
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:

Learn key lessons from the early stages of a tunnelling career.
Discover effective pathways to building a successful career in tunnelling.
Gain insights into emerging opportunities and future trends in the tunnelling industry.

About the speakers
Dejan Devrnja MIEAust
Senior Design Coordinator – Tunnels, CPB
Dejan completed his Masters of Engineering, Civil, from the University of Melbourne and was awarded the Kinsman Studentship Award. He is currently employed as a Senior Design Coordinator – Tunnels for CPB Contractors at Suburban Connect Consortium (CPB Acciona Ghella) on Suburban Rail Loop Work Package C.

Romy Wolstencroft GradIEAust
Graduate Engineer, GHD
Romy completed her Bachelor of Engineering with first class honours, from Queensland University of Technology, and is currently employed as a graduate tunnel engineer at GHD. Romy loves gaining experience in the Engineering field of either civil, structural or environmental, learning new skills and applying her current knowledge to make an impact on the world.

Aaron Lippett MIEAust
Lead Engineer, Aurecon
Aaron is a lead tunnel engineer with experience in the design and construction of major tunnel projects. Aaron bridges the gap between technical and managerial leadership, working directly with clients to develop coordinated and constructible solutions to technical project issues. Aaron is known for his extended contributions on major projects, often serving through the full project life-cycle from design to construction and completions. Aaron serves as the current ATS Young Members Secretary and NSW Events Coordinator. He is part of the ATS Tunnel Guidelines Working Group as the primary author the analytical and numerical methods chapters.

ITA Lecture - Design of fibre reinforced segments
2025-07-08 22:00 - 23:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Online
This instalment of the ITA lecture series will focus on Design of fibre reinforced segments in collaboration with ITA AITES ITAtech.
The episode will feature three lectures, including one by ATS member Dr David Oliviera, and will finish with a Q&A with all speakers. It will begin at 13:00 CET.

Design and construction considerations for FRC tunnel segments – Verya Nasri
Design of fibre reinforced segments against concrete bursting and splitting – David Oliveira
The Lee Tunnel – Steel fibre segmental lining and other innovations – Charles Allen

Following the three presentations there will be time for Q&A with the presenters
The Lunchtime lecture series remains free and open to all. For all those that cannot join ‘live’ online, please register and you will receive a link to stream the episode after the event – this link will be valid for 24 hours only. After these 24 hours, anyone wanting to watch the episode can do so by registering for the episode on the ITA website, but there will be a small fee to watch.

ATSymx BTSym: Underground Power: Pumped Hydro Developments in the UK and Australia
2025-07-17 18:30 - 19:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Webinar and IN PERSON at SMEC in Sydney, Level 7, 40 Mount Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
Event Overview
The Australian Tunnelling Society Young Members (ATSym) and the British Tunnelling Society Young Members (BTSym) are proud to host their first-ever joint international event, uniting early-career professionals from opposite sides of the globe for a shared discussion on one of the most critical energy transition technologies: pumped hydro.
With pumped storage schemes gaining momentum as a key enabler of large-scale renewable energy storage, this technical session will explore two major projects shaping the underground infrastructure landscape in their respective regions.
Join us for an engaging and collaborative session as we learn from each other’s challenges and achievements in delivering complex underground works for pumped hydro storage.
This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from professionals on two of the world’s most significant pumped hydro developments – don’t miss it.
NOTE: If you are based in Sydney, please consider attending in person from 6PM. It will be great opportunity for a catch up with colleagues and networking with new contacts.
Who Should Attend
This event is ideal for:

Young professionals and students in tunnelling, geotechnical, civil, and hydro engineering
Engineers and project managers working on energy infrastructure
Those interested in large-scale underground construction and global perspectives on energy transition
ATS and BTS members and the wider tunnelling community

Event Agenda

Welcome and Opening – ATSym
Introduction to BTSym
BTSym Presentation: Tobias Bisenberger & Aitor Perez Suescun
ATSym Presentation: Igor Buvac & Sean Edwards
Joint Q&A and Closing Remarks

Speakers – United Kingdom

Tobias Bisenberger
Construction Manager – Tunnels, STRABAG
Tobias studied Civil Engineering in Vienna and completed his PhD in Mechanised Tunnelling, focusing on contract models dealing with deviating construction timelines. He joined STRABAG in 2021 and has been involved in Pumped Storage Hydro schemes in the UK since 2022. Based in Vienna, Tobias supports UK projects on a rotational basis, contributing his tunnelling expertise to energy infrastructure.

Aitor Perez Suescun
Senior Project Manager – Dams, STRABAG
Aitor is a passionate civil engineer with over 12 years of global experience in ground engineering and dam construction. Having studied in Spain and Denmark, he has worked across five countries and now resides in London, UK. Aitor brings a deep understanding of multidisciplinary civil infrastructure delivery in complex environments.
UK Presentation Overview
The presentation will outline the UK government’s “Clean Power 2030” action plan and its implications for pumped hydro development. Aitor and Tobias will provide an overview of the UK’s pipeline of pumped storage schemes and present a case study from the Scottish Highlands. The project, supported by STRABAG, involves optimising the reference design’s underground structures and represents a key step in the UK’s clean energy future.
Speakers – Australia

Igor Buvac
Experienced Engineer – Tunnels, SMEC
Igor is a Civil Engineer with over 5 years of experience across major infrastructure projects. He holds degrees from UNSW in Civil Engineering and Geotechnical Engineering. Igor has been a central part of the Snowy 2.0 Owner’s Team for over three years, working across design, TBM operations, grouting, and permanent linings.

Sean Edwards
Graduate Engineer – Tunnels, SMEC
Sean is a Graduate Engineer from Western Sydney University, with hands-on experience in TBM and drill-and-blast tunnelling, segmental linings, caverns, and intake shafts. He has contributed to automation and modelling tools using RS3, FLAC, and Strand7, and brings a strong interdisciplinary approach to underground engineering and data-driven design.
Australia Presentation Overview
Snowy 2.0 is Australia’s largest renewable energy project, adding 2,200 MW of pumped hydro capacity and deep energy storage to support the national transition to renewables. The presentation will provide a project update and technical insights into the construction of over 40km of underground works, including a cavern complex 800m below ground. Igor and Sean will share lessons learned from design, construction, and coordination within one of Australia’s most iconic infrastructure projects.

A Whistlestop Tour of Recent Legal Changes and Trends Affecting the Tunnelling Sector
2025-07-31 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Pinsent Masons, Level 46, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
Presentation overview
Pinsent Masons proudly presents a whistlestop tour of recent legal changes and trends affecting the tunnelling sector.
Carlie Holt, who specialises in workplace health and safety, will opine on the latest developments regarding:

Safety risks being scrutinised by regulators – including the recommendations handed down from the silicosis parliamentary committee
Update on recent workplace health and safety cases and legislation

Rebecca Dickson, who specialises in construction contracting, will discuss the challenges that arise in the procurement of tunnel boring machines. Rebecca will summarise current contracting trends to reflect, and provide practical tips to meet, those challenges, which are informed by recent experiences supporting the tendering of tunnelling projects.
Gemma Thomas, construction dispute specialist, will unpack the quagmire of Linked Claims and Linked Disputes with reference to some recent and current tunnelling projects. She will answer the questions:

What are Linked Claims?
What can go wrong?
What can you do to protect your company (and the project) from risk?

Key technical takeaways:

Workplace H&S legislation
Current contracting trends on tunnelling project
Discussion on claims and dispute

Timings

5:30pm: Welcome and networking
6:00pm: Presentation
6:45pm: Q&As and post presentation networking

Beverages and refreshments will be provided
Speaker biography
Carlie Holt – Partner, Pinsent Masons

Carlie is a leading Workplace Health & Safety partner with 25 years of experience. She assists clients in a broad range of industries across Australia including construction, manufacturing, energy, health care, transport, aged and disability care and fast-moving consumer goods sectors. Carlie advises clients about WHS laws, rail safety and heavy vehicle national laws. Her involvement extends to appearing in Coronial Inquests nationwide, often as an advocate.
Carlie is also regularly called on to work with clients to help them identify and address gaps in their WHS processes and to undertake audits of officers’ due diligence and compliance with their obligations under WHS legislation. She has provided hundreds of tailored legal briefings to Boards, executive/ general managers and operational supervisors/ workers regarding their WHS responsibilities.

Rebecca Dickson – Special Counsel, Pinsent Masons

Rebecca is a building, construction and infrastructure projects lawyer specialising in procurement and regulatory advice, contract drafting and negotiation, contract administration and management and project delivery support.
She has extensive experience advising clients and contractors about procuring, contracting and delivering new buildings, industrial facilities and infrastructure projects.
Rebecca teaches construction law subjects at the University of Melbourne Law School and Monash University, and she is a PhD Candidate at Monash University (undertaking research in reforming Australia’s construction laws).

Gemma Thomas – Partner, Pinsent Masons

Gemma assists her clients to navigate difficult issues that arise during the delivery and final account stages of infrastructure and energy projects, including PPPs. Gemma believes in formulating a case strategy early on in a potential dispute and is regularly called upon to prepare claim concepts and define commercial strategies during project delivery in order to put her clients in the best possible position.
If a formal dispute does arise, Gemma has extensive experience including on large-scale complex litigations and arbitrations, both international (including ICC and LCIA) and domestic (including ACICA and the Resolution Institute).
In 2025, Gemma was recognised by Doyles Guide in the category of ‘Leading Construction & Infrastructure Litigation Lawyer – Victoria’.

Design Automation in Structural Engineering
2025-08-20 17:30 - 18:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Online
Event overview
Design automation is changing the way structural engineers work, allowing us to solve problems faster, improve design clarity, and unlock new levels of efficiency. But where do you start? And how do you make sure you’re using these tools in a safe and transparent way?
In this webinar, Danish structural engineer Timo Harboe Zollner will walk us through real-world examples of how automation, Python, and AI tools can be applied in structural design. Timo’s work bridges engineering and programming, with a strong emphasis on practicality, making automation accessible to everyday engineers.
Whether you’re a practicing engineer or team leader, this session is a chance to see what’s possible, explore real examples of engineering automation, and identify opportunities to implement it in your own projects.
Who should attend?
This webinar is suited to:
• Tunnel/Structural engineers interested in learning how to use Python and automation tools.
• Design managers curious about digital workflows and emerging capabilities.
• Anyone in the built environment seeking smarter, more efficient ways of working.
Event Details
📅 Date: Wednesday 20 August 2025
🕠 Time: 5:30–6:30pm AEST (Melbourne) | 9:30–10:30am CEST (Copenhagen)
📍 Location: Online
🎟️ Cost: Free (registration required)
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:
• See how small amounts of code can solve repetitive engineering problems.
• Understand how AI tools can support design workflows safely and transparently.
• Learn how to identify automation opportunities in your daily work.
• Gain clear direction on what to learn next if you’re new to automation.
About the speaker

Timo Harboe Zollner
Founder, Timo Harboe ApS
Creator, Python for Structural Engineers
Timo is a structural engineer based in Denmark with a background at firms such as Ramboll (High Rise) and Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). He’s known for combining engineering with programming to develop fast, transparent, and replicable design workflows. Today, he runs a consultancy focused on engineering automation and teaches engineers around the world how to use Python in their work.

Incident sensing and fire safety in Heysen Tunnels
2025-08-21 17:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | eVENT Space, 4/35 Limestone St, Darra, Queensland, 4076, Australia
Join Matt and Conrad as they address questions from the ATS Systems, Operations, and Maintenance Group, focusing on the surety of Fixed Fire-Fighting System (FFFS) activation in the Heysen Tunnels.
Given that the Heysen Tunnels Safety Upgrade and Refurbishment Project was brownfield exercise with unique challenges, South Australia’s DIT recognised that a bespoke engineering approach was required rather than recycling a prior tunnel design.
This presentation will offer insights into their philosophical approach for brownfield tunnel refurbishment, specifically detailing the innovative design of the flame-sensing camera supervision and explaining the absence of (traditional) linear heat detectors in the Heysen Tunnels.
While the misting system installation was a significant undertaking in the Heysen Tunnels, that topic was comprehensively covered in the previous ATS seminar in Adelaide back in February 2025 and will not be treated in detail here. This presentation focuses on topics distinct from the paper planned for the Australasian Tunnelling Conference 2025 (ATC2025) in Perth this November.
The Presenters
Matthew Taylor

As a Chartered Electrical Engineer, Matthew has over 35 years of experience within the electrical, mechanical, control and communications systems engineering fields within underground transport infrastructure project delivery environment within the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
A recognised innovator in the design, installation, testing, commissioning and the ongoing operation and maintenance of the technology that drives modern transportation systems, Matthew has played pivotal roles in the delivery of several of Australia’s largest projects since his migration from the UK in July 1997.
Conrad Stacey

Dr Conrad Stacey is a Director of leading underground ventilation and fire safety consultants Stacey Agnew. Conrad’s credits include seminal reports on livestock shipping heat stress risk, and co-authorship of a paper on the gravitational energy drivers for the geodynamo. He has worked on hypersonic upper atmospheric flight and river and flood plain hydraulics. A common thread through Conrad’s work in varied areas is a core focus on the fundamental physics and the engineering thought involved, all within the big picture of the community interest. He will talk about the fire engineering basis for decisions during tunnel refurbishments.
Chair Diane Mather
Diane Mather is Senior Design Manager at Queensland Hydro, with over 25 years of experience on major projects, including Clem7 (NSBT), Airport Link, City Rail Link, WestConnex M5 East, West Gate, Sydney Metro, Melbourne Metro, Brisbane Cross River Rail, Inland Rail, and now Borumba Pumped Hydro.
In 2021, Diane was honoured as the inaugural winner of the Women in Tunnelling Outstanding Achievement Award by the Australian Tunnelling Society. Diane is a dedicated role model, mentor, and advocate for attracting and retaining women in engineering.
The eVENT Space
The seminar will be onsite at the eVENT Space in Stacey Agnew’s offices, and online. Catering for those networking onsite after the eVENT will be by Yim Thai restaurant Middle Park, which is why registration includes dietary requirements.

The Victorian Tunnelling Centre - 5 years on
2025-09-04 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | ARUP Melbourne, Sky Park 1, Melbourne Quarter, 699 Collins Street, Victoria, 3008
Please join ATS Victoria for this online and in person event!
Presentation Overview
The Victorian Tunnelling Centre (VTC) commenced operations in August 2020. Five years on its opening it has worked with thousands of workers on several tunnelling projects to induct them for underground operations and provide training in the construction of tunnels and supporting infrastructure. A critical component of the training providing has been the use of interactive technologies. These technologies have improved the engagement of the learner and their satisfaction with the program undertaken. This presentation will step through the decision-making process used to determine approaches to the use of interactive learning technologies and provide an overview of the evolution of the VTC over the past five years and ideas on where to next.
Timings

5:30pm: Welcome and networking
6:00pm: Presentation
6:45pm: Q&As and post presentation networking

Venue
In person and online
Speaker

Dr Ross Digby
Ross is the Associate Director for Industry Engagement and Projects at Holmesglen Institute and the Victorian Tunnelling Centre. Ross has extensive leadership experience in the VET sector, including the past 16 years at Holmesglen. In these roles he has provided leadership and drive for several innovative initiatives including: the Victorian Tunnelling Centre and HVAC Centre of Excellence. More recently, Ross was the TAFE Directors Australia representative on the steering committee for the Clean Energy Capability Study, undertaken by Jobs and Skills Australia in 2023. During 2024 Ross was undertook a fellowship through the International Specialised Skills Institute to gain a deeper understanding of the collaboration between educational institutions and Mega project contractors.

Sponsor

2025 ATS QLD Indoor Charity Golf Day
2025-09-11 15:30 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | XGolf Southbank, 275 Grey St, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101
Event description

Come along and swing for a great cause! 🏌️‍♂️
This new format event combines the excitement of modern golf simulation with the satisfaction of supporting vital medical research. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or complete beginner, join us for an afternoon of fun, networking, and giving back to the community.
NOTE THIS IS A GOLFING SIMULATION EVENT
EVENT DETAILS
📅 Date: Thursday 11th September 2025
⏰ Time: 3:30pm arrival for 4:00pm shotgun start
📍 Venue: XGolf Southbank – 275 Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101
🏌️ Format: 3 Ball Ambrose – 9 Holes (all done in maximum 4 hours)

✨ ABSOLUTELY NO GOLFING ABILITY REQUIRED!
🤝 A relaxed, fun afternoon of networking
💡 Raising much needed funds to support life-saving medical research
🎮 Experience cutting-edge indoor golf simulation technology

💳 REGISTRATION & PRICING

Individual Player
$90

Team of 3
$250

Spectator only
$50

Booking fees apply.
🎯 All funds raised will be donated to the RBWH Foundation for medical research

🤝 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!
Contact us to learn about our sponsorship packages and help make this event even more impactful! tbrown1@systra.com or frank.cerone@masterbuilders.com
19Th Hole Sponsorship – $2,000 – Major Sponsor – a bar package to assist with subsidising drink costs on the afternoon. Includes golf registration for team of 3. Sure to be highly sought after.
Simulator Bay Sponsor (like a hole sponsor) – $1,000 – brand the simulator booth for the event. Includes golf registration for team of 3.
Prize Hole Sponsorships – $500
– Nearest the pin (x 2)
– Longest Drive

Tunnel settlement and subsidence monitoring
2025-09-15 06:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | Online and in person at: Level 9, 340 Adelaide Street, Brisbane
Overview:
This presentation will give a greater insight into the world leading GNSS innovative solution from Worldsensing, which have already been deployed in many mine and infrastructure applications including in Australia and globally. Examples will be provided for settlement monitoring during and after tunnel construction and the instrumentation. Worldsensing are innovators and technology leaders in various aspects of monitoring and more recently launched the world’s first robust, cost efficient wireless Autonomous GNSS solution as part of our G7 family of Loadsening devices, which are expanding the capabilities of autonomous remote monitoring particularly in harsh environments globally.
Learning outcomes:
In this presentation you will learn:

Insight into GNSS innovative solution
Settlement monitoring applications
Instrumentation for settlement monitoring

Program timeline:
In-Person:
5:30pm: Registrations open
6:00pm: Presentation commences
7:00pm: Presentation concludes, networking continues
7:30pm: Event concludes
Online:
6:00pm: Presentation commences
7:00pm: Presentation concludes
Speakers:

Michal Dabrowski
Global Head of GNSS and Geospatial, Worldsensing

Michal Australian-trained and experienced spatial and monitoring specialist, having worked as an Surveying and civil engineer focus. With over 11 years, Having worked extensively across remote parts of Australia on major projects, including the Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline (DBNGP), as well as large-scale mining and infrastructure operations such as the Perth Airport expansion, the Melbourne Oil and Gas Refinery in Corio, and the Sky Rail project. Michal is currently supporting the introduction of our newest innovation – the Worldsensing GNSS Meter .This technology offers precise, automated displacement monitoring that can seamlessly complement other instrumentation, enhancing both the efficiency and scope of monitoring programs.

Neil Cunnington
Channel Account Manager – Australasia, Worldsensing

Neil originally worked as an Aircraft Engineer after moving from Europe to Australia 14 years ago – Specialising on Aircraft flight training Simulators incorporating a range of Engineering applications such as Electrical / mechanical / monitoring / Avionic and Aircraft systems and subsequently 9 + years ago transitioned into Monitoring Sector working as Application engineer for environmental & instrumentation Monitoring for Campbell Scientific Australia. In more recent years working across predominantly Queensland and nationally role in the civil /Mining sector with geotechnical / Tailings applications using Geosynthetics, and structural integrity applications, for both General Civil and mining engineering projects. Neil now heads the Oceania Region over the last 2 years Worldsensing, back to his roots in the Monitoring Sector using proven leading technology.

The Interview Edge: Job Search Insights - Learning and Development Forum
2025-09-24 13:00 - 14:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Webinar
Overview:
Join us for an informative learning and development forum that combines expert insights to help you build a stronger professional presence. Hosted by Patricia Kaziro, Director of Impact Business School, with guest speaker Craig Hiscock, Technical Director – Global Fire Safety, Engineering & Design at Sener, this forum will be packed with valuable information specifically tailored for the tunnelling industry.
This event is open to the public including students and people seeking new employment opportunities. Come for an afternoon of professional growth, networking, and learning how to effectively market yourself.
Learning outcomes:

Define Your Professional Brand: Learn how to identify and articulate your unique skills, experiences, and professional value to communicate your value in a new role.
Optimise Your Professional Profile: Find out how to showcase your expertise and project experience and overcome common barriers in the Australian job market.
Ace the Interview: Gain a comprehensive understanding of crucial interview do’s and don’ts. This includes preparing for common questions, effectively communicating your achievements and potential, and avoiding common interview mistakes.

Speakers:

Patricia Kaziro – Host
Director of Impact Business School

Craig Hiscock – Guest Speaker
Technical Director – Global Fire Safety, Engineering & Design at Sener
Craig has over 35 years’ experience in the fire engineering, fire protection and fire safety industries. Craig has a high level of expertise, comprehensive knowledge of, and the ability to apply, fire engineering concepts, principles and methodologies related to tunnel, building and structural fire safety.
With a constructor’s background and designer’s outlook paired with client-side experience, Craig has been Fire Safety and M&E Design Lead for numerous major infrastructure projects in New Zealand, Australia and other international jurisdictions. Craig’s success is partly drawn from his extensive expertise, and from his ability to get buy-in from the right people to spread ownership and responsibility to take a project forward.
Through his background, experience, qualifications and ability to operate across a range of key stakeholder categories, Craig has strongly contributed to several successful major infrastructure projects throughout Australia, New Zealand and other international jurisdictions respectively. This has earned him the reputation of being a critical link between a project delivery team, client and key stakeholder such as emergency services agencies
Specialties:
– Transport fire safety including road, rail and bus tunnels.
– Heavy rail surface and elevated stations and elevated trackways.
– Commercial and Industrial building fire safety.
– Power infrastructure and mining fire safety.
– Risk analysis

Tunnelling in Barcelona Line 9: Final Stage
2025-09-25 17:30 - 18:30 (Australia/Brisbane) | Webinar – Online only
Overview
This webinar explores the final phase of Barcelona Metro Line 9, where engineers faced the unique challenge of restarting a tunnel boring machine (TBM) after it had been stored underground for a decade. The presentation highlights how the team successfully refurbished critical TBM components, resumed excavation through 2.1 km of hard granodiorite using EPB technology, and prepared for the project’s most complex stretch, a 1.6 km drive under high-pressure and heterogeneous ground conditions. Participants will gain insights into ground conditioning, TBM modifications, predictive maintenance strategies, and the technical solutions that enabled excavation to continue safely and efficiently beneath one of Europe’s most complex urban environments.
Learning outcomes:
By attending this webinar, you will be able to:

Understand the refurbishment process required to reactivate a TBM after a decade-long shutdown, including underground component replacement and upgrades.
Evaluate excavation strategies for operating EPB technology in hard and abrasive rock, with focus on cutterhead design, screw conveyor management, and wear mitigation.
Apply predictive and data-driven maintenance principles to optimize TBM performance, extend component life, and ensure operational safety.
Anticipate engineering adaptations for tunneling in complex mixed-face and high-pressure conditions, including the use of hybrid cutterhead designs and main drive system upgrades.

Program timeline:

5:30pm AEST: Presentation commences
6:30pm AEST: Presentation concludes

Speakers:

Nestor Rubiralta
TYLin Europe-Latam Line 9 TBM Tunnell, Tunnelling Department Director

Néstor Rubiralta, tunnel engineer with over 20 years of international experience in metro, road, water, and hydropower projects. Began as TBM Operations Supervisor on Barcelona Metro Line 9 before managing tunnel construction with Acciona and participating in design-and-build tendering for large-scale projects in Australia, including East West Link Melbourne, WestConnex Sydney, and Forrestfield Airport Link Perth. Also worked as a global consultant with Tunnelconsult, integrating contractor experience into design for constructability and efficiency. Currently serves as Tunnelling Department Director at TYLin Europe-Latam and Technical Director for Line 9 TBM tunnel for the last pending stretch.

Félix Dominguez
Barcelona Metro Line 9 TBM Tunnel, Assistant Director

Félix Domínguez Mayans has over ten years of experience in tunnel engineering, participating in a wide range of mechanized tunnelling projects worldwide. Since 2022, he has been part of the construction site management team for Line 9, serving as Assistant to the L9 Tunnel Director. Félix brings hands-on expertise from diverse tunnelling environments, combining technical knowledge with practical site experience. He is also an active member of AETOS Young Members, contributing to the professional development and networking within the tunnelling community. His career reflects a commitment to advancing tunnelling practices through collaboration and innovation.

Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro project
2025-10-01 17:30 - 19:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Level 26 181 William Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000
Overview
The Kidston Pumped Hydro project represents an innovative approach to renewable energy storage through the transformation of abandoned mining infrastructure. Located northwest of Townsville in Queensland, Australia, this pioneering 250MW facility developed by Genex Power demonstrates how former gold mine pits can be repurposed as upper and lower water reservoirs for pumped storage hydropower.
The project showcases significant tunnelling and underground construction expertise, featuring 235-metre deep shafts and extensive tunnel networks that form the critical waterways connecting the reservoirs. At the heart of the facility lies an underground powerhouse cavern housing two reversible pump turbines, representing sophisticated underground engineering in challenging geological conditions. The scope encompasses a six-kilometre dam at the upper storage level and requires the pumping of over 25 billion litres of water from the lower storage to enable safe completion of underground construction works. A 187-kilometre transmission line connects the facility to the national grid via a substation near Townsville.
The project demonstrates comprehensive engineering integration across multiple disciplines, including detailed design of both dam and underground infrastructure, powerhouse engineering, and construction supervision of tunnelling operations. Notably, the project employed collaborative BIM modelling with all stakeholders to optimise the entire scheme design and construction coordination.
As Australia transitions toward renewable energy, pumped hydro storage addresses the critical challenge of energy storage and grid stability. The Kidston project serves as a prototype for numerous large-scale pumped hydro developments planned across Australia and New Zealand, with projects totaling over 4GW in the development pipeline. This presentation will explore the tunnelling challenges, underground construction methodologies, and innovative engineering solutions that make the repurposing of mining infrastructure a viable model for sustainable energy storage development.
Learning outcomes
In this event, you will learn:

key components of pumped storage hydropower projects,
ground support design for large underground caverns,
construction outcomes and realisation of design.

About the speaker
Amit Narsey
Technical Director – Tunnels, GHD

Amit is a tunnelling engineer with over 13 years’ experience in the design and delivery of underground and geotechnical infrastructure in the rail, road, hydropower and water sectors. HIs key areas of technical competency are in the structural and geotechnical design of temporary and permanent ground support for tunnels, caverns, shafts and retaining structures. Amit undertakes and leads teams to deliver engineering services, and as a chartered professional he is passionate about providing practical solutions to clients using my collaborative approach, strong communication skills and experience working across various project stages including design, construction, operation, and maintenance. Amit has worked on projects located in Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Qatar.

ITA Lecture - Pushing the limits in urban conventional tunnelling
2025-10-14 22:00 - 23:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Online
Upcoming lecture
Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025
Time: 13:00 – 14:30 CET / 22:00 – 23:30 AEDT (online presentation)
Duration: 1 ½ hours
Topic: Pushing the limits in urban conventional tunnelling
This instalment of the Lunchtime lecture series will focus on Pushing the limits in urban conventional tunnelling in collaboration with ITA AITES WG19.
The episode will feature three lectures and will finish with a Q&A with all speakers, links below to the speaker bios. The lecture will begin at 13:00 CET.

Introduction to the new guideline for the conventional tunnelling in an urban setting – Etienne Garin
Case study – Vojtech Gall
Case study – Robert Galler

Following the three presentations there will be time for Q&A with the presenters
The Lunchtime lecture series remains free and open to all. For all those that cannot join ‘live’ online, please register and you will receive a link to stream the episode after the event – this link will be valid for four weeks now
Register for the events here: Lunchtime lecture series#49 – ITACET

Your Career Playbook: A Blueprint for Professional Growth - A Learning and Development Forum
2025-10-15 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Hybrid – online and in person at Aurecon – Level 11, 73 Miller St, North Sydney, Level 11/73 Miller St, North Sydney, New South Wales, 2060, Australia
REGISTER NOW!
Overview:
Join us for our first face to face and virtual learning and development forum! Hosted by Patricia Kaziro, Director of Impact Business School and a dynamic panel of industry experts, this hybrid forum will be packed with valuable information specifically tailored for the tunnelling industry. This event is open to the public, including students and people seeking new employment opportunities.
Join us for an evening of professional growth, networking, and learning to support your career growth at Aurecon or online.
Learning outcomes:

Explore new horizons: Discover how to leverage your technical skills to transition into new roles, from project management and leadership to education or advisory positions. Learn how to identify transferable skills and communicate your value in a new professional role.
Create Your Career Blueprint: Whether you’re aiming for a senior leadership role, a lateral move into a different specialty, or a career pivot. Create the vision and mindset for career change.
Expand Your Influence with a Personal Communications Strategy: Learn strategies for leveraging your relationships to open doors to new opportunities including leadership.

Host:

Patricia Kaziro
Director of Impact Business School
Guest Speakers:

Sabrina Kost
Managing Director Pini Australia | ARX Oceania Underground Expert
In my role, I am accountable for the definition and execution of the country’s strategy, its growth, market presence, its financial performance, aligned with the wider Pini Group targets, growth ambitions and key initiatives.On a technical level, I am a chartered engineer (and registered engineer in QLD and VIC), focusing on the planning, design, management and verification/certification of unique and complex major underground civil infrastructure and hydropower projects. I am specialised in support systems for challenging ground conditions, including subaqueous, dense urban environments and soft grounds, covering all construction techniques.
I am passionate in supporting staff realizing their full potential, renewable energy and assisting our clients in building more liveable cities for our future generations.

Francisco Cortes
Technical Principal at EIC Activities
Francisco is a tunnel engineering expert with 25 years of experience in the design of tunnels. He has led multi-disciplinary teams in the delivery of detailed designs for major projects and has acted as Independent Certifier and Proof Engineer for critical underground infrastructure.
Francisco developed his career in the engineering consultancy industry, progressing to senior technical leadership positions, where he holds responsibilities for strategic innovation, risk management and business growth. His work has taken him to different locations including in Australia, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and Colombia among others. He has made significant contributions to the design of iconic projects such as the London 2012 Olympics, the Elizabeth Line in London (formerly Crossrail), the high-speed Express Rail Link in Hong Kong and the Snowy Hydro 2.0 Pumped Hydro Scheme in Australia.
Francisco has acted as Technical Advisor to project developers, advising on technical matters related to feasibility and concept definition, value engineering, development of project specifications and selection of proponents in competitive tenders.
As a Fellow of Engineers Australia, Francisco participates frequently in conferences, technical presentations and is a guest lecturer at post-graduate level university courses in tunnels and underground engineering.

Rachael Price
Regional Design Manager at Seymour Whyte
Extensive experience in design management roles including M7M12 Integration Project, Sydney Metro Eastern Tunnelling, Rozelle Interchange, Easing Sydney’s Congestion and Northern Beaches Hospital Road Upgrades. A highly collaborative and proactive leader with well-established relationships with both TfNSW and multidisciplinary consultancies, as well as familiarity with many of other stakeholders in the tunnelling discipline.

ATS NSW 2025 Charity Golf Day
2025-10-16 | Ryde Parramatta Golf Club, 1156 Victoria Road, West Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
Enquiries
For any questions about registration, please contact Kristen Kiriakos community@garvan.org.au or 9295 8362.
For any general enquires in relation to the day please contact David Clague david.clague@bekaert.com Mob 0455 052 025
Register here

TBM excavation through a bench at Albert St, Cross River Rail
2025-10-16 18:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Sydney) | EA Brisbane Office, Level 9, 340 Adelaide St (EA Office), Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!
Note: this is a hybrid event available online and in person in Brisbane
Event overview & who should attend
Excavating directly above operating TBM is one of the most complex challenges in tunnelling, demanding precision, coordination, and innovative thinking. At Albert Street on Cross River Rail, this meant adapting excavation methods, rethinking ground support, and carefully controlling bench blasting to protect the TBM below.
In this presentation, Robert Elliot, Ben Swinn, and Dan Keating will walk through the real-world process of safely benching over opertaing TBM, from revising support systems to designing blasts. You’ll see how engineering decisions were made under tight constraints, supported by monitoring and risk management.
Whether you work in tunnelling, geotechnical design, or construction management, this session offers a behind-the-scenes look at a high-stakes excavation, lessons learned, and strategies you can apply to similar complex interfaces in your own projects.
Learning outcome
By the end of this session, attendees will:

Understand the rationale and risks associated with excavating directly above operating TBM, and how the methodology was adapted to address them.
Learn how ground support requirements evolved due to the change in excavation strategy, including practical implications for structural stability and safety.
Gain insights into the design and execution of controlled bench blasting near active tunnelling operations.
Be able to apply lessons learned from the Albert Street case to future tunnelling interfaces, especially in constrained urban environments with complex construction sequencing.

Speakers

Rob Elliott is a Senior Consultant from Systra, currently working client side on the Northern Water Desalination Project in South Australia as a Constructability Advisor and has over 10 years of post-graduate experience in major infrastructure projects, both in Australia and internationally. A key highlight of his career is his 5-year tenure on Brisbane’s Cross River Rail project, where he served as a Project Engineer. His experience also includes time on a major road tunnel project beneath the Suez Canal in Egypt.

Ben Swinn is a Senior Consultant from Systra currently seconded onto the Cross River Rail project as a Senior Project Engineer. Ben’s engineering background consists of tunnelling, trenchless and civil aspects including delivering recent major rail projects such as Carmichael Rail Network, Sydney Metro, Sydney Light Rail and Cross River Rail.

Dan Keating is a Senior Consultant from Systra, currently seconded onto Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 and has over 15 years of experience. Dan’s experience consists of tunnelling and heavy infrastructure works. His career has taken him overseas with exposure to projects such as Heathrow expansion upgrade, Thames Tideway Tunnel, underground coal and hardrock mining operations, Cross River Rail, Northconnex and most recently Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3.

New Diaphragm Wall Construction Method for Micro Sites and Underground Applications
2025-11-06 17:30 - 20:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | WSP Australia, Level 13/900 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006
Overview
This presentation focuses on the development of Diaphragm Wall (D-walls) construction methods used in ground engineering applications, either from the surface or out of tunnels.
It focuses on the latest D-wall developments allowing for miniaturizes equipment, the size of a shipping container, to construct D-walls underground out of 4m diameter tunnel. This State-of-the-Art method demonstrates the potential to get huge space below existing infrastructure or buildings, without demolition and rebuilding, for applications like mass battery banks, Hydrogen storage, transport infrastructure, roads, ultra safe nuclear power plants or underground water reservoirs etc. Or on the surface for minimally invasive micro construction sites.
Also focusing on a case study of a surface excavation with D-walls to 37 m deep in San Paulo, Brazil without the use of ground anchors or bracing.
Diaphragm walls have become a standard specialist foundation engineering technique. A series of individual rectangular panels produce a continuous wall. During the excavation, the open trench is stabilized and supported by a thixotropic slurry.
Diaphragm walls can provide cost – effective solutions for diverse construction projects, e.g. in restricted site conditions, projects with great depth or in challenging soil conditions.
About the speakers

Manfred Stiglmayr
Business Development, BAUER Maschinen, Germany

Manfred is a Mechanical engineer and have diverse work experience having worked with a Jaguar/FORD dealer group as GM, MD of CLAAS (agricultural machines), as MD of Komatsu construction machines in Austria, for 10 years with CATERPILLAR Global Mining as Director in Europe/ Asia, as CEO of Bobcat construction machines in central Europe, for over 6 years with BAUER Maschinen.
He served as Global active as sales director for Water, Energy & Mining until 2024 and now serving as global Business development for BAUER Maschinen to introduce BAUER more comprehensively into the foundation world.

James Morris
General Manager BAUER Equipment, Australia

Having a diverse industry background with over 25 Years in national management roles at Volvo, Hino (Toyota’s truck brand), Linde forklifts, Snap-on Tools, and now Bauer Equipment, James helps foundation engineering companies in construction, mining and civil engineering deliver technologically advanced foundations, subsurface walls, and access to high value ore bodies.
Before these management roles, James’s career started in aviation with the RAAF, becoming a Licensed Maintenance Engineer, where he developed extensive hands-on understanding of mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems and their application across diverse equipment. His role is now in delivering new and innovative foundation engineering equipment, for pile drilling, driving and excavation work, diaphragm cut-off walls and ground improvements, also for the exploration, mining, and extraction of natural resources.

This event is co-hosted with the Australian Geomechanics Society

Australasian Tunnelling Conference 10th - 14th November 2025
2025-11-10 08:00 - 2025-11-14 17:00 (Australia/Perth) | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Australian Tunnelling Conference 2025 (ATC 2025) fast approaching, and we’re excited to invite you to contribute your insights and innovations, as well as sponsor this premier event.
Check out the conference’s dedicated website here to learn more about this exciting event: Australasian Tunnelling Conference 2025

Cavidrain in Tunnels: 25 Years of International Service
2025-11-20 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Sydney) | VIC
Exploring advancements in tunnel drainage design and construction through international case studies from Australia, Hong Kong, and the UK.
Overview
This session explores the evolution of tunnel drainage systems over the past twenty-five years, focusing on modern approaches that improve drainage efficiency, durability, and constructability. Participants will gain insights into how design innovations and material advancements have addressed common challenges such as precipitate deposition, maintenance access, and cost efficiency. Drawing on case studies from major projects in Australia, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom, the presentation will highlight lessons learned and best practices in developing reliable and sustainable tunnel drainage solutions. Attendees will also learn about the performance outcomes achieved through alternative drainage layer designs and construction methods.
Learning Outcomes
By attending this session, participants will:
1. Develop an understanding of innovative approaches to tunnel drainage design and how these differ from traditional methods.
2. Learn from international case studies illustrating successful implementation and long-term performance.
3. Understand key design and construction considerations, including practical dos and don’ts derived from field experience.
Speakers
Richard Clarke
Sector Manager – Rail and Tunnels, ABG

Richard spent the first thirty years of his professional career working for several consultants and operators designing, building and operating UK landfill sites. He gained experience of using a variety of geosynthetic and geocomposite products in addition to boulder clay, marl, coal shale and bentonite-enhanced sand primary liners. He later transferred into brownfield remediation overseeing the construction and testing of earthworks, piling mats and crane pads before a move across to ABG where his practical experience is being brought to bear as Sector Manager for both Tunnels (worldwide) and Rail (UK).

Goran Erak
Director of Civil Engineering, ABG Geosynthetics

Goran is a civil engineer with 33 years of experience in the UK, Europe, Africa and Middle East, working on a number of challenging projects within a variety of sectors, including environmental, tunnels, highways, rail, water, mining, structural and residential. He’s responsible for the ABG Geosynthetics Civils division globally, including monitoring design output for specific projects in this sector and dealing with civil engineering consultancies, contractors, government organisations and coordinating research projects with universities. He is also responsible for providing specialist geosynthetic design solutions on unusual or difficult civil engineering Applications as well as managing research and development projects for advanced geosynthetic applications.

North East Link Tunnelling Progress Update and Australian Tunnelling Society Vic Chapter annual meeting
2025-11-26 17:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | ARUP Melbourne, Sky Park 1, Melbourne Quarter, 699 Collins Street, Victoria, 3008
Details
Note: This presentation will be held in person and online, please register through the link and advise of your attendance preference.
Presentation Overview
The North East Link is carving twin three-lane tunnels 6.5 kilometres through Melbourne’s northeast, connecting the Eastern Freeway to the M80 Ring Road. This presentation shares practical insights from a project that’s now 50% complete with an outstanding safety record. The project uses two approaches: two 15.1-metre-diameter Tunnel Boring Machines for the main drives, and the Sequential Excavation Method with roadheaders for the more complex sections. Working through highly variable ground conditions in a busy urban area has required innovative solutions at every stage. The presentation covers the challenges the team has faced and how they’ve addressed them—from adapting excavation methods to suit different ground conditions, managing tunnel portals in sensitive locations, and using advanced monitoring systems that track progress and ground movements in real time. You will also hear how digital engineering and Building Information Modelling have improved both efficiency and safety on site, as well as how the project balances major construction work with minimising impacts on surrounding communities. This session offers practical lessons from a significant Australian tunnelling project and a chance to discuss approaches relevant to your work.
Timings
In person:

5:30 PM Welcome and Networking
6:00 PM Presentation
6:45 PM Q&As and post presentation networking

Beverages and refreshments will be provided.
Online:

6.00 pm meeting and technical presentation
7.00 pm event ends

Supporter
This event is supported by ARUP.

Ten Years of Tunnelling – An evolution of monitoring, navigation and technology in tunnel construction
2025-11-27 17:30 - 19:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Online and in-person at Aecom Sydney Office, Level 21/420 George St, Sydney, NSW, 2000
Presentation Summary
From NorthConnex in 2015 to the Western Harbour Tunnel Project today, we’re reflecting on ten years of change in tunnelling technology and sharing what we’ve learned about monitoring, navigation, and robotics.
On the monitoring side, total stations have become far more power-efficient, underground WiFi enables faster deployments, and IoT devices now offer better battery life with connectivity options like Starlink. We’ve also started using 3D printing for custom solutions, and we’ll share practical lessons on what actually works in the field.
Navigation technology has advanced considerably for roadheaders and bolters. Sandvik’s Cutronic and TRO systems are making tunnelling safer and more precise, while improvements in visualisation and PTT management help operators work more effectively. Bolter systems have matured with auto-bolt selection, and web-based platforms now make data far more accessible.
The robotics in construction space is showing interesting possibilities. We’ve provided positioning for equipment like ROBY, Paneller, and Wall Shaver, though it’s still early days. There’s growing discussion about designing construction processes with robotics in mind from the start.
We’ll walk through these topics with real project examples and lessons learned along the way.
Timings
5:30pm Light refreshments
6:00pm (AEST) Main Presentation
7:00pm Discussion and Drinks
7:30pm Event Conclusion
Speaker

Steven Garlinge
Managing Director, Geodata KODA Australia
Steven Garlinge has worked in Sydney’s tunnelling industry since 1998, starting as a cadet engineer in the Elgas Storage Caverns. He’s developed roadheader and TBM navigation systems, monitoring control and analysis systems, and web-based reporting platforms. His projects range from single tilt sensors to hundreds of strain gauges across major infrastructure works. After founding KODA Engineering in Austin, Texas, Sydney’s tunnelling boom brought him back. He’s now partnered with Geodata, celebrating ten years in business together.
The event will also be attended by some of the senior team from Geodata (Austria)

Proudly sponsored by

Event hosted by
AECOM Sydney

Site visit: Melbourne Central Station upgrade
2025-11-28 09:30 - 13:30 (Australia/Melbourne) | Melbourne Central Station, Elizabeth Street, Entrance GD089/360, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
REGISTER NOW!
Site Visit Overview
Smoke extraction systems have been recently installed across the three MURL Stations (Parliament, Melbourne Central and Flagstaff) as part of MURL Stage 2 Fire and Life Safety Upgrade. The visit to Melbourne Central Station includes accessing the Draught Relief Shafts (DRS) at the station to observe the recently installed smoke extraction system, followed by a visit to the station master’s room to view the control and management system of the installed equipment, and a brief walk along the platform to observe upgrades such as PRM refuge areas, smoke curtains, glazing, and other improvements.
This is an opportunity for participants to gain a high-level understanding of the smoke system and to learn about the following aspects:

Real-world constraints when installing new smoke extraction system in brownfield environments not originally designed for them.
Understanding the integration of mechanical components with the station’s existing infrastructure.
Observing how the smoke extraction system is monitored and controlled by the station master, including a visit to the station master room to see how the entire train station is managed and how the smoke system integrates with other systems.
Gaining an understanding of the maintenance challenges associated with newly installed systems in a brownfield station.
Viewing new refuge areas, smoke curtains, and other station upgrades.

Maximum number of participants: 25
PPE Required:
Hardhat, steel-capped boots, high vis vest/jacket, long pants, long sleeve shirt, safety glasses and gloves.
Note: Participants who are not wearing all required PPE will not be permitted to access the Draught Relief Shaft (DRS); however, they may still take part in the platform walk and visit the station master’s room.
Brief biography of the individual leading the visit:
Ayman Eltouny is a Mechanical Engineer with over 20 years of experience in the design and delivery of major infrastructure and commercial projects across Australia and internationally. Currently with Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) for the past four years, focusing on design assurance for several key rail infrastructure projects, including Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) stations, Melbourne Underground Rail Loop (MURL) upgrades and the Metro Tunnel Project (MTP). Brings extensive technical expertise and a strong understanding of mechanical systems integration in complex, operational environments.

Site visit: Western Harbour Tunnel precast tour
2025-12-04 14:00 - 16:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Western Harbour Tunnel Facility Boral Quarries, Railway St, Emu Plains, NSW, 2750
Overview
This ATS technical tour offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the Western Harbour Tunnel segment yard. Attendees will gain insights into precast segment design, production logistics, and site operations. The visit includes a short technical presentation, a guided site tour, and networking opportunities. Ideal for engineers, designers, and tunnelling professionals seeking practical knowledge and industry connection.
The Western Harbour Tunnel is a major infrastructure project aimed at reducing traffic congestion on key Sydney routes, including the Anzac Bridge, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour Tunnel. It features 6.5 kilometres of dual three-lane tunnels extending from the Warringah Freeway in Cammeray to the WestConnex interchange at Rozelle. Stage 2 includes the construction of approximately 4.5 kilometres of tunnel from Birchgrove under Sydney Harbour to North Sydney.
Parking available: Numbers are limited. Please only register for the event if you plan on attending, no-shows will take the opportunity away from others
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:

know engineers who are familiar with the basics of tunnelling or precast concrete segments, and the role they play in tunnel construction
want to see in real life how segment design principles are applied, understand the logistics of large-scale precast production, and learn how design integrates with site operations
gain practical insights into TBM segment design, observe real-world yard operations and quality control processes, and connect these technical aspects with project delivery and industry best practice.

Program
In-person:

2.00 pm AEDT: Arrival
2.10 pm AEDT: Presentation on TBM Segment Design
2.30 pm AEDT: Presentation on the facility
2.50pm AEDT: Facility tour
4.00pm AEDT: Leave site

About the speakers

Carlos Sanabria Este
Project Manager

Carlos is a highly accomplished and dynamic Civil Engineering professional with a successful career spanning 18+ years. He is leading the Western Harbour Tunnel Pre-cast facility construction and operation.

David Oliveira
Technical Director (Tunnels), Aurecon
Dr David is a Chartered Professional with 27 years of experience in civil engineering. He is a Technical Director (Tunnels) with Aurecon, Vice-Chair of Working Group 12 – Sprayed Concrete of the International Tunnelling Association, and an invited member of the Canadian Standards Association committee writing the world’s first Tunnel Standard (not a guide). His most recent project experience includes the Westconnex M8, Westconnex M4-M8, Hinkley Point C Nuclear Power (UK), Sydney Metro West-Central Tunnelling Package, Western Harbour Tunnel Package 2, and Borumba Pumped Hydro.

Shu Fan Chau
Deputy Technical Director, AECOM Canada
Shu Fan is a tunnel engineer with experience in tunnelling of all kinds, with a specialty in large Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) tunnels. In addition to TBM tunnelling, Shu Fan’s wide-ranging tunnel expertise includes drill and blast tunnelling, immersed tube tunnelling, cut-and-cover tunnels, deep excavation, underground structures, site formation and slope works.
Shu Fan’s expertise in TBM tunnel design was recognised when he was engaged as a tunnel lining design lead for the West Gate Tunnel in Melbourne. Shu Fan completed the preliminary tunnel design and then the detailed design for this TBM project, considering the difficulties posed by the wide variation in ground conditions, the high-water pressure, and many required tunnel openings.
His breadth of experience, too, is both local and international. Shu Fan has been involved and played a significant role in geotechnical and tunnel design and construction in some of largest TBM tunnel projects in the world, including the Tuen Mun – Chap Lap Kok Link (TM-CLKL) subsea tunnels in Hong Kong, the Waterview Connection tunnels in New Zealand, the West Gate Tunnel project in Melbourne, Australia, and Western Harbour Tunnel in Sydney, Australia.

PPE required

steel cap boots
hard hat
high-visibility vest

Otherwise, please contract Thomas.Roper@acciona.com and some can be provided, limited numbers.

ATS NSW St Barbara's Day Social
2025-12-04 17:30 - 21:00 (Australia/Sydney) | The Greenwood Plaza Rooftop, 36 Blue Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060
Join ATS NSW for a social get together to from 5.30pm.
All ATS members welcome.
Celebrate St Barbara’s day and catch up with your peers.
If you plan on attending, please email David.clague@bekaert.com
If you’d like to sponsor this event, please email: David.clague@bekaert.com

St Barbara's Day Social - ATS Victoria
2025-12-04 18:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | John Holland Offices, Level 9, 180 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
REGISTER NOW!
The Victorian Chapter of the ATS invites members to attend an in-person celebration for the Feast Day of St. Barbara, the patron saint of tunnellers and miners, as an end of year social gathering on Thursday 4 December 2025.
This networking-focused event is to be held in the excellent event space at the Melbourne offices of the John Holland Group, with its indoor area linked to a panoramic balcony overlooking the river and city. The event is being held to recognise and celebrate the past year’s achievements on tunnelling projects within Victoria and nationally, their engineers and workforce, and to provide an opportunity to look forward to future tunnelling opportunities.
The celebration will be an informal stand-up affair with quality finger food and a range of drinks included in the $40 ticket price, with all the necessary responsible service requirements in place.
The ATS members discount code is STBARB25. Please enter this on the registration page to ensure your discount.

St Barbara's Day Social - ATS Queensland
2025-12-04 18:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | GHD Brisbane Office, Level 9/145 Ann St, Brisbane City, Queensland, 4000, Australia
REGISTER NOW!
The Queensland Chapter of the ATS invites members to attend an in-person celebration for the Feast Day of St. Barbara, the patron saint of tunnellers and miners, as an end of year social gathering on Thursday 4 December 2025.
This networking-focused event is to be held in the GHD Offices, a dynamic space designed for connection, collaboration and innovation overlooking St George Square and City Hall. The cocktail style event is being held to recognise and celebrate the past year’s achievements on tunnelling projects within Queensland and nationally, their engineers and workforce, and to provide an opportunity to look forward to future tunnelling opportunities.
Sponsors
Huge thanks to our event sponsors:

ATS NSW AGM: A decade of digital engineering in tunnelling
2025-12-11 17:30 - 19:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Aurecon Sydney, Level 11, 73 Miller Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
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.​

Event sponsor
Special thanks to Aurecon for generously sponsoring this event.

Joined Conferences on CTTU & TBM DiGs
2026-01-19 08:00 - 2026-01-23 17:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Monash University
Registration for the Joined Conferences on CTTU & TBM DiGs – 19-23 January 2026 in Melbourne, Australia – is now open!
The International Conference on Construction Technology in Tunnelling and Underground (CTTU) was first established in Melbourne in 2020 to advance research and technological innovation in tunnelling and underground infrastructure. CTTU encompasses a broad range of topics, including technology applications, information modelling, advanced sensing, machine learning, and big data analytics in underground construction. It also explores data structuring, automated decision-making, process modelling for construction management, semantic web services for operations, and TBM positioning automation.
Tunnel Boring Machines in Difficult Grounds (TBM DiGs) is a global conference series offering a dedicated platform for the exchange of knowledge on TBM tunnelling in challenging geological conditions. Launched in Singapore in 2015, the series has since been hosted in Istanbul (2016), Wuhan (2017), Golden, USA (2019), and Leoben, Austria (2022). TBM DiGs addresses a wide array of topics, including ground characterisation, case studies, field monitoring, physical and laboratory testing, numerical modelling, ground treatment techniques, TBM design and operation, tunnel support systems, instrumentation, and risk management.
In 2026, these two internationally recognised conferences will come together for the first time in a joint event hosted in Melbourne, under one unifying theme: Innovating Underground: Resilient and Intelligent Solutions for Next-Generation Tunnelling
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Submit your abstract now!

Deadline: 30 September 2025 (2-page extended abstract).
Selected submissions will be considered for TUST, Computer and Geotechnics, and IJRMMS.
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Sponsors
We are also seeking sponsorship opportunities for this event. Click here for more information.
