By Cristian Biotto, Chair of the ATS Tunnel Systems, Operation and Maintenance group
What a great conclusion! The ATS-SOM VTC Workshop wrapped up today with a morning visit to the West Gate Tunnel.
Reflecting on the two-day workshop last week, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this event possible, particularly Dayang Sandum, Lee Brown, from the Australian Tunnelling Society SOM Committee, Ross Digby and Naw Naw from Holmesglen. This workshop was the culmination of months of collaboration, countless meetings, phone calls, and hundreds of emails; it simply wouldn’t have been achievable without the dedication of our volunteer team.
I must also express my appreciation for our sponsors and vendors, who showcased their latest products and answered all our queries. A special mention goes to our presenters: hashtagABB, hashtagHoneywell, hashtagReece, hashtagGeomotion, hashtagSika, and hashtagStaceyAgnew, as well as the manufacturers who conducted live demonstrations of their products: hashtaglpgfire showcased mist nozzles, hashtagWitt&Sohns presented a (mini) jet fan, hashtagBKB highlighted their fire pump station, hashtagGeomotion demonstrated their tunnel sensors, and hashtagACOEM showcased their air sensors. Thanks also to hashtagTrox, hashtagLepol, hashtagFantech, hashtagHowden, and hashtagEagleEngineers, whose booths sparked valuable discussions and learning opportunities.
I would like to recognise two major Melbourne tunnel operators whose experts devoted their time to discuss the evolution and future of tunnel systems. hashtagMTM provided insights into the impressive retrofitting of ventilation and fire systems within the MURL shafts and stations, while hashtagTransurban offered a glimpse into the future, focusing on how AI is reshaping the management, maintenance, and operation of their road assets. My sincere thanks to Surbhi Maheshwari, Ayman Eltouny, Yeasmin Khandakar, PhD, and Michael Kost for their contributions.
A highlight of the workshop was our visits to the Parkville Station, Melbourne Central Station, and the West Gate Tunnel. I am grateful to hashtagCYP, hashtagRPV, hashtagMTM, and hashtagCPBJH for granting us the opportunity to tour these incredible infrastructure sites.
To me, the workshop embodies the very essence of the ATS-SOM group. It revolves around learning, sharing, and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on personal and professional development. It was truly inspiring to witness so many designers, contractors, manufacturers, operators, and representatives from government agencies come together, eager to contribute, share, and benefit from our community.
