SEM tunnel arch pours progress - Crews have now completed close to one‑fifth of the arch pours in the SEM tunnel on North East Link, marking another important step forward in the tunnelling works.

A purpose‑designed formwork system was developed specifically for the tunnel’s 12‑metre‑high arches, enabling concrete to be pumped from the surface directly into position. Once cured, the formwork is stripped and moved forward to support the next arch pour.

This month also saw the successful pour of the first cross‑passage arch junction. Cross passages connect the two tunnels and will provide critical access for emergency services when the tunnels open in 2028.

Since the start of the year, the SEM team and the Bulleen Cut and Cover team have been excavating towards each other, removing more than 60,000m³ of material. With the breakthrough now complete, it’s possible to walk the full length of this tunnel section, which will connect to the Eastern Freeway once open.

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