Coliban Water is using a high-tech laser-guided tunnel bore to install a new sewer main in White Hills, which will be 507m-long and will replace the ageing East Bendigo sewer trunk main, improving the capacity of the network to carry sewage from growing suburbs.
Manager Infrastructure, Corey Bourne, said the laser-boring technique is similar to that used in the Melbourne Metro Tunnel project but on a much smaller scale.
“The laser-boring technique is a more accurate way of constructing the micro-tunnel,” Mr Bourne said.
“It allows us to constantly monitor and manoeuvre the machine to ensure accuracy.
“The technology means we can reduce the need for excavation, limit disruption to nearby residents, and avoid damage to trees and habitat.”
Work began on 6 February 2023 and will continue over a seven-week period.
Coliban Water is working with Bohrtec, the German company who developed the laser-guided tunnel bore technology. They have provided an expert who will assist the Coliban Water team.
“The new sewer main will cater for Bendigo’s growing population by improving the capacity of the network to carry sewage from the growing suburbs of Strathfieldsaye, Junortoun, parts of Strathdale and East Bendigo to the Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant,” Mr Bourne said.
“The portion of the main being replaced passes through the carpark of the Bendigo Racecourse and connects to the Bendigo sewer main.”
