‘TBM Issy’ recognises the trail-blazing career of Isolde who became the first female TBM pilot in the world more than 20 years ago. Today, Isolde is leading construction on SRL East's twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley, overseeing all of Suburban Connect's tunnelling crews - including the world's first all-women TBM crew.
A strong advocate of women entering the industry, Isolde has acted as a technical advisor throughout recruitment and more broadly leads efforts to support women without previous experience to embark on construction careers.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of this incredible project and this history-making initiative, which I hope will encourage many more women to join the industry,” said Isolde.
The names were chosen by Grade 1, 2 and 3 students from seven primary schools located along the SRL East alignment, who voted from a shortlist of women recognised for their influence across health, community leadership, the arts and construction.
Eight TBMs will excavate 26 kilometres of twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Box Hill. Four machines will deliver Suburban Connect’s scope of works, digging 16 kilometres of twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley.
The following machines join TBM Isolde on the Cheltenham to Glen Waverley section:
- Aayushi – named for Aayushi Khillan, a health advocate and founder of social enterprise Body Buddies.
- Belinda – named for Belinda McKenzie, the first woman to drive Melbourne’s historic Puffing Billy steam train.
- Muriel – named for Aunty Muriel Bamblett, a respected Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Bunurong Elder.
For Glen Waverley to Box Hill:
- Alice – named for music producer and musician Alice Ivy.
- Bich Cam – named for Bich Cam Nguyen, founder of the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association.
- Elizabeth – named for chef, teacher and author Elizabeth Chong.
- Hacia – named for Hacia Atherton, founder of Empowered Women in Trades.
Together, these TBMs and their crews will play a central role in delivering SRL East – inspired by the courage and leadership of the women they honour.