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Help name our Tunnel Boring Machines

Three massive TBMs, each over 100 metres long, will start tunnelling underground from the second half of 2026 – and they need names!

These powerful machines will shape how we move across South Australia for generations to come, and now you have the chance to shape a little piece of history by helping us name them.

Why naming matters

Naming TBMs is a proud tunnelling tradition around the world. It gives each machine its own identity and helps crews and the community follow their journey underground. 

Just like the custom of giving ships female names, TBMs are also named after women, as a sign of good luck. This dates back to the 1500s, when workers prayed to St Barbara, the patron saint of miners and tunnellers, for protection underground. 

We're inviting all South Australians to help us name these incredible machines – so you can leave your mark on our state’s history. 

Need inspiration?

We’re looking for names that are meaningful, memorable and proudly South Australian – something that captures the spirit of protection, bravery and trailblazing – just like our TBMs.  

 You might want to think about: 

  • inspiring women from South Australian history  

  • local heroes who have made a difference  

  • cultural icons who capture the spirit of SA.  

Don’t miss your chance to leave a mark on South Australia’s history – submit your idea today!  

TBM 1 Cutterhead

How to take part

1. Think of a name – each TBM must have a female name, that fits tunnelling tradition.

2. Tell us why – share a short explanation of why your name is special, inspiring or meaningful.

3. Submit your idea – use the online form to submit your name. 

Entries are open from now until 5pm Sunday 30 November 2025.

You can submit one name and only one entry per person will count. By entering, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions.

Name the TBMs

Submit a name

What happens next?

After entries close, we’ll shortlist a group of names for the community to vote on. The winning names will be announced before tunnelling begins — ready to take their place in South Australia’s story.

Entry guidelines

  • Open to all members of the South Australian public

  • One name idea can be submitted per person

  • For entries to be shortlisted, they must be a female name with a brief explanation as to why they’ve been submitted (max 30 words)

  • Entries must be submitted via the official T2D Website Naming Form

For full details, read the Terms & Conditions