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.
Vote for your favourite name soon
We asked you to submit names that are meaningful, memorable, and proudly South Australian – and you delivered!
We were overwhelmed by your responses – we received more than 2000 name ideas!
We are currently shortlisting the top names, and then it will be time to vote for your favourite. The winning names will be announced before tunnelling begins — ready to take their place in South Australia’s story.
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.
