we’re delivering 3 major road projects The 6.5km North East Link tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen will fix the missing link in our city’s freeway network take 15,000 trucks off local roads a day and reduce travel times by up to 35 minutes Upgrades to the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road will include new lanes smart technology and a seamless connection to the North East Link tunnels You need to enable javascript to view latest disruptions Return to the North East Link homepage Receive regular updates about North East Link Work on North East Link is powering ahead with tunnelling now underway after launching both Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) in Watsonia With the acoustic shed at Winsor Reserve and all the other temporary tunnelling infrastructure now complete and both TBMs launched we are getting on with the job of building the 6.5km twin tunnels to Bulleen We will now be working for more hours of the day and night and working continuously in some locations to keep these critical tunnelling activities progressing We will continue to work closely with the local community to inform you of upcoming works. If you feel you are experiencing excessive impacts from construction, we encourage you to contact the project team on 1800 105 105 we are now getting on with continuous work at the Lower Plenty Road interchange and construction of the ventilation building in Yallambie The first batch of our concrete segments for the tunnel walls have arrived with 44,000 to be supplied from LS Precast in Benalla throughout the tunnelling process The enclosed conveyor belt is now finished and operating taking the dirt and rock from the tunnels over Greensborough Road and into the acoustic shed at Winsor Reserve It is then loaded into trucks and moved off site to our EPA approved facilities Crews have also installed a massive mural on the west and north walls of the acoustic shed natural landscape that depicts a visual story from morning to night which features local animals that come out at these different times Construction on the northern ventilation building has started with work on the foundations underway The ventilation tunnel that will connect this building to the main tunnel entrance is over half way completed Work to build the Lower Plenty Road interchange has been progressing well with excavation of the main box ramping up while the team continue building foundations deep underground These works will allow us to build the ramps that will take road users in and out of the tunnels our focus shifts to upgrading local roads and park lands We’ve already started widening Lower Plenty Road at Greensborough Road with more stages to come including the installation of the Iuk (eel) pedestrian and cycle bridge which will connect the Rivergum Walk Trail to the upgraded Borlase Reserve We've also started site investigations around the Silk Street pedestrian bridge as we prepare to upgrade it before the project is complete The pedestrian bridge will be upgraded with improved functionality and height giving the bridge a modern look that will enable large vehicles to travel under it along Lower Plenty Road We’ll also begin building the new tree-lined Greensborough Road boulevard which will include creating a service road along sections of the boulevard to allow locals safer access to and from their homes Work will continue at our Lower Plenty Road interchange site to build the new tunnel entry and exit ramps and prepare for the TBMs to travel through the area next year we’ve moved the Watsonia Road and Greensborough Highway intersection to create the space needed to build the Watsonia Road bridge and connection to North East Link We’ll be working regularly along Greensborough Highway near Watsonia Road. To find out more and plan ahead, visit our Disruptions page In partnership with Women in Construction and the Civil Contractors Federation North East Link is providing Victorians the opportunity to undertake a Certificate III Civil Construction Traineeship paving the way for women to thrive in the construction industry The 18-month program blends trainer-led online sessions on-site practical observation and time in a classroom This flexible structure allows participants to manage their training alongside work commitments This program provides the opportunity for women to build on their existing skill set and forge a pathway in the construction industry. Find out more about employment opportunities on the project via northeastlink.vic.gov.au/jobs We're working closely with the local community to manage the impact of works All works are carefully planned and managed to make sure residents can continue to enjoy where they live and local businesses can continue to operate we use lights to provide safe working conditions We limit the light impacts on residential areas by facing lights towards work areas and away from homes as much as possible We also use shields to minimise light spill into surrounding areas We try to avoid creating dust during construction we will limit its impact on the environment by: Strict controls have been put in place to make sure construction noise is well managed and complies with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria guidelines If you feel you are experiencing excessive impacts from construction, contact the project team on 1800 105 105 or visit our Community Hub at 17 Watsonia Road Watsonia between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday North East Link has partnered with Yurringa Energy – an Aboriginal owned renewable energy provider that will supply green power to the project This means our Tunnel Boring Machines digging the 6.5km twin lane tunnels will be powered by 100% renewable energy Yurringa Energy is creating employment opportunities for First Nations Peoples as well as providing training and development opportunities to support career growth For languages other than English please call 9209 0147 Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format. If you need assistance due to a hearing or speech impairment, visit relayservice.gov.au Artist’s impression of M80 Ring Road and Macorna Street walking and cycling bridge The completed M80 Ring Road will take 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road with through traffic passing under Grimshaw Street Elder Street and Watsonia Road – giving local roads back to local people New free-flowing interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street will ease congestion and slash travel times with dedicated lanes for local trips and express lanes to the North East Link tunnels More than 10km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths and better connections to Watsonia Station and shops will make it safer and easier to move about local suburbs The project is planned to open at the same time as the North East Link tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen and the Eastern Freeway Upgrades from Hoddle Street to Springvale Road Use the map to explore the project design for the M80 Ring Road Completion For more information, read the project design fact sheet or the M80 Ring Road Completion Urban Design and Landscape Plan Receive updates and disruption notifications from the M80 Ring Road Completion delivering new lanes through to Plenty Road and a seamless connection to the North East Link tunnels – taking 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road and giving local roads back to local people We’ll also build new interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street more than 10 kilometres of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths better local connections to Watsonia Station and shops and new noise walls to meet a tougher traffic noise standard of 63 decibels during the day As we build the M80 Ring Road Completion, there will be major changes to how you move about by road and rail. To stay up to date on works in your area, sign up for updates at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/roads-subscribe We’re connecting the M80 Ring Road to the North East Link tunnels – taking traffic and trucks off local roads new landscaped bridges and new and upgraded walking and cycling paths will also make it easier for locals to get to schools public transport and improved green spaces Taking traffic and trucks off local roads and improving local trips Connections for local trips and new express lanes for North East Link Both bridges will have wide walking and cycling paths along both sides green landscaping and fewer cars and trucks on Greensborough Road for easier trips to the station and shops We've also started planting trees early in local parks Dedicated lanes will take through traffic and trucks off Greensborough Road and under Grimshaw Street Elder Street and Watsonia Road – returning local roads to local people The M80 Ring Road Completion will be timed to open around the same time as the North East Link tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen and Eastern Freeway Upgrades Your feedback at work More than 15,900 pieces of community feedback since 2017 have helped develop the design for the M80 Ring Road Completion construction compounds are needed at AK Lines Reserve and Gabonia Avenue Reserve we’ve reduced the size of the compounds and will be returning improved spaces at the end of construction New multi-million dollar facilities have also been built at Binnak Park and Greensborough College to support local players during construction Winsor Reserve will be used to support tunnelling from Watsonia to Bulleen The acoustic shed is nearing completion and will be around 140m long enclosed conveyor belt over Greensborough Road with the 35-metre bridge structure over Greensborough Road now installed When the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) start tunnelling from mid-2024 the dirt and rock that is removed will be carried on this belt from the launch site at Watsonia over Greensborough Road and into the acoustic shed at Winsor Reserve The dirt will then be safely loaded onto covered trucks and taken off-site Truck wheel wash stations will be installed on site at Winsor Reserve to reduce dirt and rock making its way on roads You’ll see an increase in truck movements once tunnelling starts to keep pace with the TBMs digging underground we’ve installed traffic lights on Greensborough Road ensuring trucks exiting Winsor Reserve have minimal impact on traffic flow The playground and walking path at the back of Winsor Reserve near Tuckfield Court will remain open for local use the reserve will be reinstated and returned to the community for public use Read our fact sheet Tunnel construction in Watsonia and Macleod Read our construction update Construction ramps up from Yallambie through Watsonia with the first tunnel boring machine (TBM) now digging the 6.5 kilometre road tunnels between Watsonia and Bulleen It’s the first of two massive machines that will help dig the twin tunnels that will take 15,000 trucks off local roads and save drivers up to 35 minutes and 4000 tonnes - among the biggest in the southern hemisphere In keeping with tradition, TBMs are named before they start work, and the North East Link TBMs have been named Zelda and Gillian after 2 groundbreaking local women The late West Heidelberg resident Zelda D’Aprano AO (1928-2018) was a renowned activist notably chaining herself to a building when an equal pay case was dismissed in 1969 and establishing the Women’s Action Committee She was a key player in a long campaign by many remarkable women working toward closing the gender pay gap Dr Gillian Opie is a neonatal paediatrician at the Mercy Hospital for Women in Heidelberg Dr Opie founded Australia’s first breast milk bank more than 10 years ago providing sick and premature babies in Melbourne’s neonatal intensive care units (NICU) with safe TBM Zelda and TBM Gillian will dig approximately 10 metres per day and up to 45 metres underground building the tunnels that will pass traffic under instead of through local suburbs The tunnels will be built using 100% renewable electricity and dirt and rock from the tunnels will be re-used across North East Link and other transport sites where possible with a significant amount of dirt also helping rehabilitate a former quarry at Point Wilson and the former Orica site in Deer Park the TBMs will install tunnel walls made of approximately 44,000 individual concrete segments that have been made locally in Benalla with the tunnels opening to traffic in 2028 Stay updated about North East Link with the key announcements and milestones We’re fixing the missing link between the M80 Ring Road and an upgraded Eastern Freeway – reducing travel times by up to 35 minutes and taking 15,000 trucks off local roads a day We’ve listened to what people had to say through the Environment Effects Statement (EES) process. In late 2021 we released a project design with longer 6.5km tunnels to Watsonia, simpler interchanges and 50 MCGs of open space across the entire North East Link Program a team of some of the best builders in Australia and around the world to build the North East Link Tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen we’re exhibiting an Urban Design and Landscape Plan to ask the community what they think of the look and feel of what’s planned for their area bike and walking paths and improvements to local roads Subscribe to our e-newsletter The North East Link Tunnels will take traffic and trucks under instead of through our suburbs and give local roads back to local people Longer tunnels and a simpler Lower Plenty Road interchange have created more space for new parklands better walking and cycling paths and to change Greensborough Road into a tree-lined boulevard See the map on the fact sheet for more details In response to community feedback we’ve extended the North East Link Tunnels to Watsonia by tunnelling an extra 1.9km using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) – keeping more works underground If you live in the local area and want to use North East Link it’s now easier Ramps in Watsonia will connect you to the M80 Ring Road Ramps in Yallambie will connect you to the Eastern Freeway Greensborough Road will be a better road for local trips and to live on We’re using space created by the longer tunnels to: We’re also delivering the better east-west access people asked for with: 6 new and upgraded intersections and crossings will make Greensborough Road safer and easier to use The simpler Lower Plenty Road interchange has created 5 MCGs of new parklands along Banyule Creek including a major expansion of Borlase Reserve to the north with space to: The design for the ventilation structure has been inspired by traditional Wurundjeri eel traps and surrounded by new trees and plants Solar panels on the sides will help power the tunnels below Yallambie and Rosanna will deliver 3.4km of new and upgraded walking and cycling paths including: trees will need to be removed while we’re working at the surface This will help make space to launch and operate the tunnel boring machines build the Lower Plenty Road interchange and the new Greensborough Road boulevard at least 2 will be planted including extensive planting along the new Greensborough Road boulevard at the new Borlase Reserve parklands and to revitalise Banyule Creek where land used for construction will be returned to the local community While we’re refining the design through the Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) you’ll see us out and about getting ready for major tunnelling works to begin later this year We’re working on the best route for the tunnel boring machines to take beneath the Yarra River and parklands and will be out talking to residents who will have the tunnel near them later this year Visit our website for more information about works in your area and to sign up for regular updates The Urban Design and Landscape Plan for the North East Link Tunnels is on exhibition now The UDLP has detailed maps and drawings of the project design and an explanation of how it meets strict requirements in place for North East Link Making a submission is your opportunity to have a say on local elements for your area including new parklands walking and cycling paths and improvements to local roads We’ll be using what we hear to finalise the UDLP before submitting it to the Minister for Planning later this year for approval and getting major construction underway You can find out more about the UDLP and see a copy online from Wednesday 11 May to Tuesday 31 May 2022 at Engage Victoria or visit a display and talk with our team at: 17 Watsonia Road, Watsonia 191 Bulleen Road, Bulleen You can also view the UDLP at local council offices and libraries. To find a location near you visit Engage Victoria Make your submission online at Engage Victoria by 5pm If you need help accessing the UDLP, or to make a submission, please contact us on 1800 105 105 or at community@northeastlink.vic.gov.au This information is current at the time of publication Please visit our website for the latest updates Fixing the missing link between the M80 Ring Road and an upgraded Eastern Freeway  The North East Link Tunnels will slash travel times by up to 35 minutes and take 15,000 trucks off local roads a day We’ve listened to what people had to say and are building longer 6.5km tunnels to Watsonia simpler interchanges and 50 MCGs of open space across the entire North East Link Program This includes Victoria's longest road tunnels interchanges at Lower Plenty Road and Manningham Road Visit the project team at the Watsonia Hub, 17 Watsonia Road. Find us on Google maps The North East Link Tunnels will take traffic and trucks under our suburbs and give local roads back to local people better walking and cycling paths and transforming Greensborough Road into a tree-lined boulevard In response to community feedback through the project's planning approvals we're building longer tunnels to Watsonia – tunnelling an extra 1.9km using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) to keep more works underground If you live in the local area and want to use North East Link ramps in Watsonia will connect you to the M80 Ring Road As part of the Lower Plenty Road interchange design we're building 5 MCGs of new parklands along Banyule Creek The design for the ventilation structure is inspired by traditional Wurundjeri eel traps and surrounded by new trees and plants See the map on the factsheet (PDF, 2.2 MB) for more details For every tree removed to build North East Link at least two will be planted including extensive planting along the new Greensborough Road boulevard More than 15,900 pieces of community feedback since 2017 including over 870 submissions on the project’s Environment Effects Statement have helped develop the design for North East Link In 2022 we exhibited an Urban Design and Landscape Plan for the North East Link Tunnels and asked local people to provide feedback on the design for their local area In response to feedback received we’re: Find more information about what we heard in submissions and the changes made in response While most of the work to build the North East Link Tunnels will happen deep underground major works are needed at the surface to launch and operate the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) tunnel ventilation structure and new Greensborough Road boulevard The TBMs will be launched and operated from the start of the tunnel in Watsonia with a supporting compound at Winsor Reserve in Macleod to manage the dirt excavated The Lower Plenty Road interchange ramps will be built using a method called cut and cover A deep area will be excavated to build the tunnel and connecting ramps We'll be keeping the local community up to date on works in your area as we build the North East Link Tunnels The North East Link Tunnels are just one part of the biggest ever investment in Melbourne's north east We're also completing the Ring Road in Greensborough building Melbourne's first dedicated busway and the North East Trail – more than 34km of new and upgraded bike and walking paths This massive program of works is being carefully planned so the whole project can open around the same time in 2027/2028 - bringing all the pieces of North East Link together See the project timeline on the factsheet (PDF, 2.2 MB) for more details This information is current at the time of publication, however changes may occur. Please visit our website for the latest updates The Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) for the M80 Ring Road Completion from Greensborough to Watsonia has been approved In response to community feedback received through the project’s Environment Effects Statement the UDLP exhibited for comment included improved interchange designs at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street better locations for walking and cycling bridges at Macorna Street and Nell Street a wider landscaped bridge at Watsonia Road and a new landscaped bridge at Elder Street While the plan was on exhibition in October 2023 it was viewed online more than 13,600 times Over 670 people visited our Watsonia Community Hub to speak with our team and just over 475 submissions were received In response to submissions received the final UDLP approved by the Minister for Planning in September 2024 includes further improvements to the design including: Thank you to everyone who took an interest in the UDLP online came to an information session or gave us your feedback You can read more about what we heard, and changes made to the UDLP in the Community Consultation Report - PDF, 5.3 MB See the approved UDLP We’re planning to move one set of transmission towers at Watsonia to the other side of Greensborough Road Moving the towers from the train station car park to the power line easement will: the new transmission towers would be about 80m away from their original location The relocation of the transmission towers has been informed by comprehensive technical studies and consultation with AusNet Services the owner and operator of the Victorian electricity transmission network We investigated whether it’s possible to move the power lines underground but found homes would be required two large transition towers that move the power lines from above ground to below ground would need to be built and surrounded by safety compounds The existing power line easement is only 50-55m wide As well as requiring homes along the power line easement the compounds would permanently take up open space and may have a greater visual impact than keeping the lines above ground Moving lines underground would require homes public space and may have greater visual impacts than keeping the lines above ground This set of towers is needed to keep the tension in the power lines tight and at a safe height Removing the towers would not comply with current regulations and introduce significant safety risks to the public Work to move the towers is expected to start in early 2020 after we are expected to receive planning approvals for the North East Link Program Moving the towers should take around 6 months intensive bursts of around a few days at a time and local residents would be advised before works start We expect to be able to move the transmission towers without businesses or homes losing power Work to move the towers would be staged in a way that isolates only the lines being worked on This would keep other power lines live so power can stay on in the local area and across the broader network The proposed project design for this area includes upgrades to paths along the power line easement to make walking and riding around Watsonia safer and easier Some of the existing paths along the easement would be moved so they better connect to: a new green bridge at Elder Street for trips to the station and shops a new path next to Greensborough Road all the way between River Gum Walk at Lower Plenty Road and the M80 Ring Road Trail If you have any questions about plans to move the transmission towers, or the North East Link Program please visit our Community Information Hub at 17 Watsonia Road or call us on 1800 105 105 North East Link and the M80 Ring Road Completion are heating up over summer with rail system upgrades forming part of an 8-week construction blitz – in a major step towards getting the Hurstbridge rail line at Watsonia ready for North East Link From 11pm Friday 31 January until the last service on Thursday 27 March buses will replace trains between Heidelberg and Eltham on the Hurstbridge Line while crews upgrade a range of operational and rail systems – including track and overhead traction infrastructure Crews will work around the clock to lay a new track slab install communication and safety systems as well as build out the rail corridor abutments paving the way for the project to extend the rail tunnel beneath Greensborough Highway This major construction blitz will put the extended rail tunnel on track for completion in mid-2026. When complete the Watsonia rail tunnel will become the third longest in Melbourne People across Melbourne’s north-east are asked to allow extra time and plan their journey by checking the PTV or VicTraffic apps before they travel The North East Link tunnels, the M80 Ring Road Completion and the Eastern Freeway Upgrades will be complete in 2028 we're completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough The completed M80 Ring Road will take 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road with traffic passing under Grimshaw Street Elder Street and Watsonia Road – keeping local roads for local trips Two new interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street will ease congestion and slash travel times with dedicated lanes for local trips and express lanes to North East Link cycling and public transport connections will make it safer and easier to move around Melbourne’s north-east passengers will benefit from comprehensive upgrades to safety and reliability as part of plans to extend the rail tunnel where it crosses under Greensborough Highway in Watsonia some activities can only be performed when trains are not running with buses replacing trains on sections of the Hurstbridge Line at various times The completed M80 Ring Road will be built over the Hurstbridge Line between Grimshaw Street and Elder Street in Watsonia the existing rail tunnel will be extended to nearly half a kilometre long The nearby Grimshaw Street bridge over the rail line will also be rebuilt and widened The new extended rail tunnel will be the third longest on Melbourne’s train network behind the new Metro Tunnel and the City Loop The extended rail tunnel is driving maintenance work on almost five kilometres of the Hurstbridge Line between Macleod and Greensborough stations Safety and reliability upgrades for passengers on the Hurstbridge Line include modernising tracks wires and signalling to replace assets that are over 100 years old in some sections Works to extend the rail tunnel and rebuild the Grimshaw Street bridge are now underway and will continue until 2026 M80 Ring Road Completion will deliver improvements to all forms of transport and make it quicker and easier to move about the area Drivers will benefit from more lanes on the new Grimshaw Street bridge to make it easy to access Greensborough Highway North East Link and the M80 Ring Road using the new Grimshaw Street interchange Over 10 kilometres of new and upgraded shared paths will create better local connections for walkers and cyclists with new underpasses at Grimshaw Street and a new Nell Street bridge to improve safety and accessibility the pedestrian rail crossing at Wattle Drive in Watsonia was rebuilt as part of safety upgrades on the Hurstbridge Line The new crossing is fully accessible with an active safety system including lighting emergency gates and alarm bells to warn of approaching trains Some upgrade works can only be carried out when power to the train line is turned off for the safety of workers There will be planned disruptions at these times with buses replacing trains on sections of the Hurstbridge Line Disruptions are coordinated with partners including Metro Trains and the Level Crossing Removal Project to minimise impacts for passengers Plan your journey by visiting ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007 before you travel Weekend disruptions will also be required at times the Victorian Government has delivered more train services and better connections on the Hurstbridge Line Works are underway in Watsonia to upgrade the Hurstbridge Line During work hours there may be varying levels of noise dust and intermittent vibration coming from the rail corridor The project has strict requirements to manage these construction impacts with real time monitoring to protect the local community and environment If you have any questions please call 1800 105 105 or visit the Hub at 17 Watsonia Road We have a number of major construction sites as we deliver the M80 Ring Road Completion This fact sheet outlines what we are doing to manage construction impacts and travel disruptions as we build the M80 Ring Road Completion The project will pass through traffic under local roads from Greensborough to Watsonia for a seamless connection to North East Link – taking 19,000 cars and trucks off Greensborough Road each day If you feel you are experiencing excessive impacts from construction, we encourage you to contact the project team on 1800 105 105 as soon as possible All works are planned and managed in line with the project’s Environmental Performance Requirements (EPRs) The EPRs identify the impacts of project construction and how they will be managed These were developed in consultation with stakeholders before works on the project started through the Environmental Effects Statement (EES) process verified and audited by an Independent Environmental Auditor We meet Victoria’s stringent air quality standards Air quality will be regularly monitored to ensure it complies with strict Environmental Performance Requirements (EPRs) You may notice some vibration when we're working nearby There are strict requirements in place to minimise disruption and avoid damage to buildings Managing contaminated material is a normal part of major construction We’ve conducted thousands of soil tests to understand ground conditions but in the event that unexpected material is found we have processes to manage this safely to protect the community and our workforce crews will set up an exclusion zone and monitor air quality to ensure there is no risk to our workers or the public Licensed removalists will attend the site wearing personal protective equipment They are trained to safely handle and dispose of any hazardous materials that may be present in line with strict EPRs and EPA guidelines We're working hard to retain and protect as many trees as possible We work with qualified ecologists and arborists to determine which trees need to be protected and which trees need to be replaced through new planting To maintain access and car parking for residents in local streets we've built dedicated car parks with over 900 spaces for our workers in our site compounds To keep traffic moving on freeways and arterial roads sometimes we need to carry out works at night Although we follow specific noise requirements and plan carefully to avoid noisy works at night Impacts to nearby residents and businesses are managed by a range of measures including changing the time of planned works providing respite periods or offering temporary relocation and using noise barriers or changing construction methods to reduce noise If you ever have concerns about the amount on noise, call us straight away on 1800 105 105 We use a system called SiteHive to monitor noise vibration and air quality across our worksites These smart devices have cameras and microphones that help us identify sources of excessive noise which means we can place them in areas we predict may have higher impacts These dedicated routes are carefully planned to minimise impacts on traffic To keep road users safe and keep local traffic moving we’re installing a new temporary signalised intersection on Grimshaw Street We work closely with North East Link to plan truck movements and routes that minimise disruption to the local community you may notice changes to some of the roads you are familiar with particularly on and around Greensborough Highway Greensborough Bypass and the M80 Ring Road There may also be changes to walking and cycling paths Our community Hub at Watsonia is a one-stop shop for project information and enquiries Visit anytime or contact our project team to make an appointment As part of planning for North East Link we're proposing changes to local roads in your area we heard that retaining 2-way access at Nell Street and Greensborough Road is important We've developed an updated design to do this improving local access once North East Link is built As part of this proposed design we need to slightly widen the Greensborough Road Reserve at Nell Street Before we widen the intersection at Nell Street we need to seek approval from the Minister for Planning to amend the Banyule Planning Scheme We've prepared a draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) as part of this process Planning Schemes set out how land can be used and developed The Nell Street PSA is now available for your comment Public consultation on the Planning Scheme Amendment will commence on Tuesday 19 April and finish on Tuesday 17 May 2022 You can view the documents and submit comments on the Engage Victoria website or by posting your submission with a cover letter to North East Link Program All submissions must state the name and the address of the person submitting Please note that all submissions will be treated as public documents All local councils have planning schemes in place Planning schemes set out how land can be used including what can be built on and under it North East Link Program will seek approval from the Minister for Planning for a PSA to facilitate the updated design at Nell Street and Greensborough Road To build North East Link and for Nell Street to retain access to Greensborough Road the intersection needs to be widened to maintain safety for drivers and pedestrians This increases North East Link’s project boundary requiring a Planning Scheme Amendment We're updating the design at Nell Street based on what we heard from the local community. We're working directly with residents impacted by the design change. Locals can provide feedback on the design change at Engage Victoria The Nell Street design changes will impact some trees These trees will not be removed until major works to complete the M80 and build a new Grimshaw Street intersection begin in 2024 The final design by the appointed contractor will seek to keep as many trees as possible Major works for the M80 Ring Road Completion is expected to start in 2024 North East Link community engagement will continue to keep local residents updated as planning and construction progresses If you have any questions about the Planning Scheme Amendment process, please call 1800 105 105, email community@northeastlink.vic.gov.au or visit the North East Link Watsonia Hub at 17 Watsonia Street, Watsonia Whitehorse Crime Investigation detectives have charged three people after a series of RSL burglaries across Melbourne sets of keys and personal property from six commercial venues Police will also allege that they compromised the telecommunication and security systems at the Watsonia and Pascoe Vale venues to gain access to the buildings detectives issued search warrants at properties in Prahran and Brunswick West where they located and seized a vehicle and arrested a man and two women A 38-year-old Brunswick West man has since been charged with five counts of burglary A 31-year-old Brunswick West woman has been charged with five counts of burglary and theft A 33-year-old Prahran woman has been charged with five counts of burglary and theft possess imitation firearm and two counts of deal with proceeds of crime They were all bailed to appear before Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on April 28th Information and Events for Seniors throughout Australia Contact us: newsdesk@australianseniorsnews.com.au We're building the North East Link Tunnels from Watsonia to Bulleen taking traffic and trucks under instead of through suburbs we'll be using a technique called mined tunnelling for about half a kilometre Mining machinery will work in the rock layer deep underground excavating the tunnels in sections and installing supports as we work This fact sheet explains how we’ll build this section of the tunnels as people continue to live and work above and key steps ahead of work starting in 2024 The mined tunnels in Bulleen have been carefully designed to link to the Manningham Road interchange to the north and the Eastern Freeway interchange to the south Improvements to both interchanges in response to community feedback have let us design a straighter route for the tunnels closer to Bulleen Road that links to: The route for the section of tunnel from Bulleen to Watsonia to be built using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) is being confirmed now and we'll be out talking to people in the area later this year To build the mined section of the North East Link Tunnels in Bulleen large machines called road headers will chip away at the rock layer deep underground To support the tunnels as they’re built we’ll be excavating the tunnels in sections This is called a sequential excavation method (SEM) and is a common technique used to build mined tunnels concrete will be sprayed across the roof and sides of the tunnels (shotcrete) and supports will be drilled into the surrounding rock to reinforce the tunnel structure The top of the tunnels will be up to 30 metres at their deepest point That's around the height of a 8–9 storey building Some people and places directly above or very near where works are happening underground could experience minor levels of vibration but we’ve done a lot of work to assess the likely impacts and it is unlikely to cause damage to properties Electronic monitors at the surface will be used during construction to help manage works underground People near tunnelling works will also be offered a building condition survey before construction starts In the unlikely event building damage does occur If your property is above or near the North East Link tunnels you will continue to use your land as you do now If you are thinking about building on your property an additional step in the planning permit process may be needed for certain works the usual approvals through your local council would still apply with a step to check what’s planned won’t affect the tunnels like adding an extra storey or pool will likely be able to go ahead like multi-level units with a significant basement car park structure would need extra consideration To include the extra step in the planning permit process the area covered by Design Development Overlays in your local planning scheme will be adjusted to align with the new tunnel route The overlays protect the tunnels from potentially damaging works above ground and were approved in December 2019 after the project’s Environment Effects Statement (EES) The area where the overlays apply will be updated to align with the new tunnel route we'll be in touch with residents to confirm where the overlay is required If you’re in the area where the tunnels will be built are planning on building on your property and have questions now With thousands of tunnels operating around the world and millions of people living above them with no impact on their daily lives we know tunnels can be built safely and without affecting buildings and properties above ground Before we start work to build the mined tunnels NELP needs to acquire land deep underground.  This is called strata acquisition and does not affect ownership of land at the surface Land at a depth of 15 metres below ground will start being acquired towards the end of 2023 we’ll be in contact to let you know before the strata acquisition process starts Strata acquisition will take place in accordance with the Major Transport Projects Facilitation Act 2009 Where land is acquired at a depth of 15 metres or more below ground This is consistent with what we know about modern tunnelling with people above tunnels being able to continue to use the land at the surface as they do now We're completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough including a seamless connection to North East Link building temporary fencing and setting up site compounds to establish safe work zones To keep traffic moving during the day on Greensborough Highway and the M80 Ring Road some works have needed to take place at night we'll be able to undertake most works during the day helping to minimise impacts to locals and keep traffic moving To make space to build the Watsonia Road landscaped bridge and connection to the North East Link tunnels we're moving the Watsonia Road intersection and realigning Greensborough Highway closer to the former Watsonia Station car park We’ll also prepare to move underground utility services such as sewerage we’ve already started works behind traffic barriers in the former Watsonia Station car park we’ve been removing existing infrastructure and installing new conduits pits and groundwater wells for utility services works will happen over weeknights and weekends on Greensborough Highway and Watsonia Road and lane and road closures will be in place at times you will be able to access Greensborough Road businesses between Devonshire Road and Richards Avenue from the northbound lanes The temporary realignment will be in place until mid–2026 We’ll make further changes to the intersection as construction progresses From 9pm Friday 23 to 5am Monday 26 August Watsonia Road will be closed between Devonshire Road and Greensborough Highway Greensborough Highway will be reduced to 1 lane in each direction between Elder Street and Powley Parade Delays of up to 20 minutes are expected so we encourage you to plan ahead and allow extra travel time lane closures and reduced speeds at times on: so please follow all signage and directions from traffic controllers the existing rail tunnel needs to be extended we've upgraded almost five kilometres of rail tracks and signalling between Macleod and Greensborough stations These changes will help improve the safety and reliability of Hurstbridge Line services Works to build the extended rail tunnel and other upgrades on the Hurstbridge Line will be ongoing as part of major construction to complete the M80 Ring Road including new lanes smart technology and a seamless connection to North East Link Some activities can only be carried out when trains are not running and power to the train line is turned off for the safety of workers there will be planned disruptions with buses replacing trains on sections of the Hurstbridge Line at various times Plan your journey by visiting ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007 before you travel We’ll carry out most of our works during the day although some extended hours and night works will be required particularly when working near live traffic There are strict controls in place to manage construction impacts when working at night If you ever have concerns about construction impacts, call us straight away on 1800 105 105 The community will still be able to shop local and support businesses during construction We're working with local traders on how best to support them and keep customers coming through the doors To find out what Watsonia has to offer and support your local businesses, visit our Watsonia traders directory. Before major construction can begin in some locations we need to relocate underground and overhead utility services such as power Moving these services will provide the necessary space to complete the M80 Ring Road and protect essential infrastructure during construction We're coordinating with utility service providers to minimise planned disruptions these may be required at times with advance notice provided to affected properties You may notice temporary closures and access changes while we’re in the area Our community engagement team is out speaking with local people about works in the area and how we can provide support during construction. If you have any questions or would like to speak with us, please call 1800 105 105 or visit us at: If you require a translator or interpreter, you can phone us on 03 9209 0147 Contact us through the National Relay Service (extensive list of call options) and request to call our Contact Centre 1800 105 105 See the Australian Government's Accesshub website for information about accessible services for people who are deaf hard of hearing or have a speech impairment Stay updated about the North East Link Program with the key announcements and milestones We’re getting ready to start construction of the North East Link Tunnels later this year As we prepare for major tunnelling construction this update outlines upcoming works in your area including Greensborough Road we’ll need to assemble and launch tunnel boring machines (TBMs) These huge machines will dig the North East Link Tunnels well below the ground ensuring the community and local businesses can continue to operate above ground The North East Link TBMs will be launched from the east side of Greensborough Road near Lenola Street and Winsor Reserve will also be used to support construction works and tunnelling we'll start to prepare construction sites and compounds in Watsonia Macleod and Yallambie ahead of major work later this year We'll also be making changes to Greensborough Road that will be in place during construction We’ll be keeping the local community updated as we move closer to getting these works underway and our community engagement team will be out and about talking to nearby residents and businesses See the map on the fact sheet for more details we'll be preparing to realign Greensborough Road between Wattle Drive and Watsonia Road This will allow us to build the launch box where the TBM parts will be lowered into and the TBMs assembled The small car park closest to Watsonia Road will close at the end of May (the Watsonia Station car park will remain open) You'll see us out talking to traders and residents about these works as planning progresses We expect these works to be completed in late September with the changed traffic conditions in place for a number of years we'll start preparing the site north of Lenola Street in Macleod ahead of major piling and excavation work later in the year Piling involves heavy machinery and cranes to bore deep holes which are filled with concrete The piles will form the support for the launch box you’ll see us start to secure the area where the launch box will be excavated and the surrounding compound will be built with machinery and materials to be brought and stored on site We'll be building a large acoustic shed at Winsor Reserve later this year This shed will support the TBMs once they start tunnelling on the other side of Greensborough Road As the TBMs make their way underground toward Bulleen the dirt they excavate will be transported via a fully enclosed conveyor system over Greensborough Road to the shed it will be safely loaded onto covered trucks inside the shed and securely carried off site The acoustic shed will be constructed to minimise noise The playground and Tuckfield Court path at the western side of the reserve will remain open and some large established trees on the western and southern side of the reserve will also remain Construction compounds will be established along Greensborough Road from Watsonia Road to Blamey Road You'll see site offices and dedicated worker facilities going up plus storage areas being prepared to support works in the surrounding areas To construct the North East Link Tunnels and interchanges some trees and vegetation will need to be removed along Greensborough Road with strict environmental performance requirements in place We've designed the project to keep trees wherever we can and to maximise opportunities for new trees to be planted – including new parklands along Banyule Creek and the Yarra River and 700 new trees for the new Greensborough Road boulevard Borlase Reserve will continue to be used as a site compound to support major tunnelling works and construction of the new Lower Plenty Road interchange you'll see site offices and storage areas being constructed Large machinery will also arrive on site ready to support the start of piling works from late in the third quarter of 2022 Piling involves workers and construction equipment boring huge support columns into the ground to allow deeper digging to safely commence Drysdale Street will remain closed from Greensborough Road to Borlase Street for several years while works are taking place All construction site access will be from a purpose-built entry at Lower Plenty Road no construction vehicles will access the construction site via Borlase Street New walking and cycling detours will be in place while the tunnels are being built to ensure pedestrians and cyclists can move safely around the area 2 bus stops on Route 513 at Torbay Street and Greensborough Road will close in both directions for several years due to works in the area For more information visit Public Transport Victoria or call 1800 800 007 Sometimes we may need to work outside these hours and we'll let you know beforehand We'll notify you before work starts nearby with more information on what time and days we'll be working We're planning our work to minimise disruption to the local community and road users wherever we can noisy works will be contained inside the purpose-built shed Hoardings will also provide some noise mitigation for nearby residents the purpose-built shed will help contain dust from construction Most roads within works areas will be sealed to minimise dust movement Trucks carrying dirt from the tunnels will be covered we'll provide plenty of notice and have traffic management plans in place to minimise disruptions as best we can Light - Shields will be used to minimise light spill into homes Night works - If night or out of hours work is required we will ensure noise is kept to a minimum to reduce disturbance to residents We’ll also let you know about any night works in advance and discuss support measures with you Parking - Dedicated worker car parking is built for each construction area enough for all workers to ensure they don’t park on local streets You may have received a letter from the Spark team offering your home a complimentary property condition survey The report produced will provide an independent record of the condition of your property on the date of the inspection If you received a letter and would like a complimentary inspection of your property, call us on 1800 105 105 We'll continue to provide the local community with information about construction as it progresses Our community engagement team will continue to be out and about talking to people about works in their area and how we can support you during construction you may sometimes see us out capturing photography and videography including the use of drone and time-lapse cameras With construction planning well progressed the North East Link Project is finalising a Voluntary Purchase Scheme for property owners who will be most affected by impacts of both construction and final project design This means some people in particular homes in particular circumstances are eligible for the Government to purchase their home Once the details for this area are finalised the North East Link Project will be in touch with eligible property owners with more information about the process and how they can participate if they choose The Urban Design and Landscape Plan for the North East Tunnels is on exhibition from Wednesday 11 to Tuesday 31 May Make your submission online at Engage Victoria by 5pm Tuesday 31 May 2022 You can also visit a display and talk with our team at the Watsonia Community Information Hub or the Veneto Club Watsonia Hub reopened on Wednesday 2 October The hub underwent some major renovations to set the building up for the next 8 years Turning what was once a bank branch into a fully accessible Come talk to us about North East Link in our new community space Grab a free sausage from 10am until noon on Saturday 19 October Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm or make an appointment by calling 1800 105 105 Police have arrested and placed charges after a Narre Warren man was assaulted by a Wattle Glen man in a road rage incident in Watsonia last month it is believed the 32-year-old Narre Warren man in a grey Holden 4WD was travelling along Grimshaw Street when he collided with a Holden hatchback around 3:20pm then got out of his car and allegedly assaulted the male victim before smashing the victim’s car window with an axe He has since been charged with driving while suspended reckless cause of injury and reckless conduct endangering serious injury he was also charged with assault with a weapon the use of a controlled weapon with excuse and nine times with the possession of a drug of dependence heading into an unknown direction of travel He was remanded to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court today Two major work sites in Watsonia and Macleod have been established to support North East Link tunnelling works We’re preparing to build Victoria’s longest road tunnels the North East Link tunnels will take traffic and trucks under our suburbs and give local roads back to the local community we’ve extended the North East Link Tunnels to Watsonia we're focused on preparing for the arrival of the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) late this year To ensure the TBM launch site at Watsonia is ready there will be 2 purpose-built facilities constructed An acoustic shed will be built on Winsor Reserve ready to store and remove dirt and rock excavated from the tunnels we will build a tunnel segment storage shed to house the pre-cast concrete segments that will become the tunnel walls We’re working closely with nearby residents to ensure construction disruptions are minimised wherever possible Read on for more information on how these sites will be set-up this year and how they'll be used to support tunnelling from 2024 The massive TBMs need a lot of space and equipment to launch and get to work below ground The site at Watsonia is the only area near the tunnel entrance big enough to house all the equipment needed to dig out and remove the dirt and rock as we build the tunnels The site also provides more direct access to arterial roads meaning fewer construction vehicles on local roads There will be more than 1000 deliveries of equipment and TBM sections as we get ready to assemble the 2 massive tunnelling machines on-site before they are launched below ground Once the TBMs start working deep underground each TBM will work 24/7 throughout the year and move up to 15m each day we'll also be building a 550-tonne gantry crane to lower the TBMs into the launch box The gantry crane is over 30m high and will span the full width of the launch box which is almost 50m The main gantry beams will be delivered in 2 pieces before being welded and assembled on-site The gantry crane will be in place by late 2023 ahead of major tunnelling works from early 2024 The massive TBMs are transported from the Port of Melbourne in segments they are joined together and placed on a temporary platform (‘cradle’) before being lowered in and launched A large shed is needed at the TBM launch site to store the pre-cast concrete segments that make up the tunnel walls We'll install around 125 pre-cast concrete segments as our TBMs tunnel each day The TBM places these curved wall segments along the dug path ensuring the tunnel is supported and watertight These wall segments are poured off-site and stored in a shed until they are ready to be installed The shed will be located north of Yallambie Road The huge cutter head on the front of the TBM rotates with hydraulic cylinders pushing it forward Hardened cutter discs mounted on the cutting head do the actual work of breaking away the soil and rock Conveyor belts and pipes inside the TBMs will take the rock and soil to the end of the machine and then to the surface the dirt and rock will be carried along an enclosed conveyor belt over Greensborough Road where it will be loaded onto trucks and taken off-site to be re-purposed or disposed of There are strict Environmental Performance Requirements to manage noise and vibration from tunnelling ensuring that people can continue to enjoy their homes as they do now while the TBMs pass through A large acoustic shed will be used to store and remove dirt from the tunnel the excavated dirt will come to the surface on a continuous enclosed conveyor system The conveyor will carry the dirt over Greensborough Road to the large acoustic shed Trucks will enter the shed and be loaded with the dirt and rock The acoustic shed will operate 24/7 and be big enough for more than 10 trucks You will notice an increase in trucks in the Watsonia area as they continuously move in and out of the shed The new signalised intersection on Greensborough Road will give trucks dedicated safe access and turning space to keep other traffic moving Both the shed and the conveyor belt will be acoustically treated and enclosed to contain noise light and dust impacts to nearby residents with trucks using the new traffic lights on Greensborough Road only We know this is a big change for the local area while we build the North East Link Tunnels we have increased hoarding heights and moved equipment and worker facilities further away from residences We have retained around a quarter of Winsor Reserve as public open space during construction The playground at the western side of Winsor Reserve and the path through to Tuckfield Court will remain open for local use We’ve also kept as many of the large established trees on the south and west side of the reserve as possible We'll be speaking to local residents soon about what they would like to see on the shed once it is built – including potential artwork Winsor Reserve will be reinstated and returned to the community We acknowledge that we’re working in residential areas and remain committed to supporting our neighbours and minimising the impact of construction works wherever we can While some of our sites will eventually operate around-the-clock they will do so in accordance with the program’s Environmental Performance Requirements (EPRs) determined through our extensive Environmental Effects Statement (EES) process truck movements and maintaining local access Mitigation measures will be put in place to manage dust will minimise these disruptions and keep residents and workers safe by clearly defining the construction areas We'll be out talking to local residents throughout the year and giving regular updates on construction A Voluntary Purchase Scheme is available to property owners most impacted by both construction and final design of North East Link Any decision to sell your home to the State Government is entirely voluntary and we are available to speak with eligible residents about this Home > Spark Consortium launch first north east link TBM Tunnelling has begun on Melbourne’s North East Link with the first TBM now digging the 6.5km road tunnels between Watsonia and Bulleen It’s the first of two Herrenknecht machines and 4000 tonnes are among the biggest in the southern hemisphere and the North East Link TBMs have been named Zelda and Gillian after 2 groundbreaking local women TBM Zelda and TBM Gillian will dig approximately 10m per day and up to 45m underground The tunnels will be built using 100% renewable electricity and dirt and rock from the tunnels will be re-used across North East Link and other transport sites where possible with a significant amount of spoil also helping rehabilitate a former quarry at Point Wilson and the former Orica site in Deer Park the TBMs will install tunnel lining made of approximately 44,000 concrete segments that have been made locally in Benalla The machines will be driven by the Spark Consortium which was awarded the contract to deliver the North East Link Tunnels towards the end of 2021 The $11.1bn North East Link’s twin 3-lane road tunnels will connect the M80 Ring Road to the Eastern Freeway At 6.5km long – twice the length of the Burnley tunnel – they’re set to be the longest road tunnels in Victoria North East Link is the biggest ever investment in Melbourne’s north east – changing the way people move around Melbourne Pioneering Underground Technologies - Herrenknecht AG is the technology and market leader in mechanized tunnelling Herrenknecht delivers cutting-edge tunnel boring machines for all ground conditions and in all diameters - ranging from 0.10 to 19 meters More Information | info@herrenknecht.com | +49 7824 3020 and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" 11/04/2025 Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) has awarded the contract for the excavation of a new High-Speed Rail (HSR) tunnel in Łódź… 07/01/2025 AECOM has announced it has been selected by Dragados UK to serve as the lead designer on the first stage… 27/01/2025 The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has announced that it will work with the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning… The latest from the Tunneling Journal direct to your inbox TGS Media LtdThe Old LibraryWebster HouseDudley RoadTunbridge WellsTN1 1LEUnited Kingdom © Tunnelling Journal. 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Admin In Watsonia, Macleod and Yallambie, works are stepping up as we prepare for major construction of the North East Link Tunnels Piling works have started and we're continuing to build new lanes on Greensborough Road to keep traffic moving right through construction North East Link will fix the missing link in our city’s freeway network We've kicked off establishing our site compounds in Watsonia and Yallambie – all in preparation for major tunnelling in 2024 we're realigning Greensborough Road and piling the foundations for the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) launch box This will help create space for us to lower the massive TBM into place while keeping traffic on Greensborough Road moving alongside construction we're making room for the simpler tunnel interchange at Lower Plenty Road and bringing large machinery and equipment on site to support tunnelling works We're working closely with residents and traders as works progress Read on to see what will be happening near you Download the fact sheet (PDF, 731.6 KB) to view the map in detail We’re realigning a 300-metre section of Greensborough Road to make room to build the launch box for the Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) while keeping traffic moving right throughout construction On the east side of Greensborough Road between Watsonia Road and Yallambie Road we’re preparing the launch box for the TBMs ahead of their expected delivery in late 2023 we’ll assemble and launch them on their journey south in 2024 the dirt they excavate will come to the surface on a continuous enclosed conveyor system The conveyor will carry it over Greensborough Road to a large acoustic shed at Winsor Reserve the dirt will be safely loaded onto covered trucks and moved offsite Soon we'll start preparing the area and laying the foundations for the acoustic shed To manage truck and traffic movements and to keep locals safe a new set of traffic lights will be installed just north of Torbay Street The playground and Tuckfield Court path will remain open for local use we'll work with the community to reinstate the reserve into a sporting and recreation space The ventilation structures for the North East Link Tunnels will protect the health of the local community and drivers using the tunnels The northern tunnel ventilation structure will be located near Blamey Road on former Department of Defence land in Yallambie We're preparing the site for construction of a ventilation shaft to connect to the tunnels underground We’re preparing the site so we can build the ramps and the tunnels for the new Lower Plenty Road interchange The interchange ramps will be built using a method called cut and cover We’ve just finished 6 months of site investigation and geotechnical testing to help us better understand the area’s geology and site conditions More than 11,000 soil and rock samples were taken from over 2000 locations This information is helping inform detailed tunnel design We’re planning construction to minimise traffic disruptions so you can keep moving throughout works We’re installing new traffic light intersections along Greensborough Road to allow trucks to safely enter and exit our sites We'll also keep reviewing traffic light sequencing to keep traffic moving planning truck routes that avoid local roads and using haul roads within work sites to keep as many trucks as possible off local roads we’ll have safety barriers in place to keep people and road users separate from our works We’ll install signs to guide pedestrians and drivers through changed traffic conditions and detours we’ll have traffic controllers and reduced speed limits to help you travel safely please allow extra travel time for your journey and be mindful as you move around the area Sometimes we’ll need to work at night from 7pm to 6am We'll reach out to businesses and traders before any night works start with more information on what time and days we'll be working Community projects big and small will benefit from the new North East Community Fund Applications have closed for the first funding round and there will be another funding round in 2023 The fund will support projects and provide lasting community benefit to areas most impacted by construction For more information, visit North East Community Fund kindergartens and early learning centres near our works now have access to nursery vouchers as part of a $50,000 program to support more green spaces as North East Link is built We've partnered with Yarra View and Bushland Flora Nursery Our arboriculture specialists will also work to help them choose suitable tree species and locations timber and mulch to local community groups and organisations from the trees that were removed including 50 logs to Banyule City Council for playground furniture Watsonia shops are staying open for business during works North East Link Program and major tunnelling contractor are supporting traders by partnering with Watsonia Traders Association and surrounding businesses to keep people shopping local throughout the works Visit Watsonia Shops for the latest promotions We’ll continue to provide the local community with information about construction as it progresses Our community engagement team are out talking to people about works in their area and how we can support residents and traders during construction 17 Watsonia Road, Watsonia10am to 5pm, Monday to FridayFind us on Google maps or contact our project team to make an appointment Sign up for project updates Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time I visited my old suburb of Watsonia recently and found a place in flux waiting to see what will happen when the North-East Link’s tunnel project meets the Western Ring Road later this decade the government bought huge swathes of land on Melbourne’s suburban fringes to house families of returned World War II service personnel which comprised little more than paddocks and a railway station It was subdivided and the lots sold cheaply to hundreds of veterans who built modest homes in which to raise their children had begun in crowded inner-suburban multi-generational homes Because most of the veterans were of a similar age I couldn’t walk through my gate without tripping over a friend or being smacked in the head by a stray ball from a game of street tennis we free-ranged over the open fields that would become North Watsonia or joined others on the long hot walk down to the Greensborough swimming pool The suburb might have been largely flat and charmless but our treeless streets rapidly greened under serious gardening Picture the Aussie equivalent of a Norman Rockwell painting: fathers pushing manual lawnmowers and bonding over front fences; mothers swapping family news and arranging to perm each other’s hair In the streets around us there were the haves and have-nots: cars or no cars; telephones or no telephones Houses with televisions had windows that flickered blue Our neighbours had flickery windows months before we did they would invite us in to watch their marvel fathers visited the old hall in Morwell Avenue that served as a kindergarten during the week and an RSL sub-branch after the dance classes had packed up on Saturday afternoons shiny RSL attracting poker machine fanatics like moths to a supernova The rail line and Greensborough Road slashes the suburb in two some schools and the earliest homes; the other with its small group of shops and slightly younger houses Homes in Watsonia are getting bigger.Credit: Jason South We were fortunate to be in the section with the Watsonia Road shopping strip a much-patronised milk bar and a gift shop where I could lay-by cheap ridiculously kitsch ornaments to give my mother The patient owner let me pay them off a few pennies at a time a solicitor operates from that premises and the banks are gone a surprising number of needs are met in Watsonia Road Greensborough Plaza is only 10 minutes away a riffle of shock vibrated through our meat-and-three-veg lives when a Chinese takeaway opened on Lambourne Road Good reports were relayed back from daring early adopters Soon we were ordering our chow mein and fried rice which the shop’s owner ladled directly into our saucepans Thai and wine bar offerings were unimaginable then But bigger things are afoot in Watsonia: a spanking new town square is slated for the top of Ibbottson Street the shops across the road and early designs including a story pod It’s just 30 minutes to the city by train and has green spaces Dad’s lovingly tended garden is overgrown and next door an enormous new residence looms over our little weatherboard The excited couples who moved their families here mid-century are mostly gone and the modest homes they were so proud of are slowly being replaced by far larger houses hopefully disgorging another generation of kids and balls onto the streets but a different Watsonia no doubt serves its residents well This article is part of our “Life in the ’burbs” series. The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up here waiting to see what will happen when the North-East Link\\u2019s tunnel project meets the Western Ring Road later this decade the government bought huge swathes of land on Melbourne\\u2019s suburban fringes to house families of returned World War II service personnel I couldn\\u2019t walk through my gate without tripping over a friend swapping family news and arranging to perm each other\\u2019s hair which the shop\\u2019s owner ladled directly into our saucepans It\\u2019s just 30 minutes to the city by train and has green spaces Dad\\u2019s lovingly tended garden is overgrown and next door please \\u2013 for one brief shining moment The Opinion newsletter is a weekly wrap of views that will challenge Our North East Link Community Information Hub is now open at 17 Watsonia Road While renovation works are happening at the hub you can still drop in to see the designs and concept drawings from the September 2018 project update and chat to the team about the North East Link project Visit our community hubs page for more information You can also contact us by emailing community@northeastlink.vic.gov.au or calling 1800 105 105 You can now click/tap WATCH to start the live stream You can now click/tap LISTEN to start the live stream You can now click/tap LATEST NEWS to start the live stream Investigations are underway after a man was found dead after a house fire in Watsonia last night Press PLAY to hear the full details from police Emergency services were called to the Daours Court home just after 11pm A male resident was able to safely evacuate the property but the body of a man was found inside once the fire was extinguished Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 we’ll be busy in Watsonia in coming months as part of works to build North East Link We'll be working closely with service providers to build a new mobile phone tower install underground telecommunication services and add new car spaces at Watsonia Station We’ll also be moving underground cables and pipes on local roads and building a site compound in Frensham Reserve to support these and other works happening nearby Managing works well and minimising disruptions as much as we can will be a key focus as we get these important works done safely We've developed a design that delivers even better outcomes for local people including a longer tunnel to Watsonia and a tree-lined Greensborough Road boulevard Access to the station platform and bus stop will be unchanged as we move essential services and build new car spaces at Watsonia Station Some car spaces will be closed at times but the car park will stay open with only minor detours in place Some accessible parking spaces may also be needed during the works and we'll provide alternatives close to paths and crossovers Our worksites will be a safe distance from people and parked cars and we’ll be installing temporary fencing on all sides to keep them secured We know how important train station parking is and will provide updates as the works progress We'll be building 24 new car spaces with lighting and CCTV security cameras on the former site of the high-voltage transmission towers These spaces will provide alternative parking during works in the northern car park We'll be installing underground telecommunication services in the northern car park Works will happen during the day and sometimes overnight We'll help service providers to build a new mobile phone tower in the northern car park and remove the current tower nearby There will be minor changes to the car park layout with 3 new car spaces added We'll set up a site compound to support works happening in the area It will have temporary fencing on all sides to safely enclose sheds The site compound will be accessed via Elder Street and Frensham Road We'll be installing underground telecommunication services on Nell Street These works are expected to happen during the day We'll be installing underground gas services on Watsonia Road These works are expected to happen overnight We're carefully planning our works to minimise disruptions we'll be speaking with local traders at Watsonia Shops about what to expect and will continue to support them staying open during construction We’ll be using traffic controllers and signage when working near roads and paths to safely guide people through the area and maintain access as much as possible There will likely be some noise during works to move underground cables and pipes and we’ll notify you before this happens We’re not expecting any mobile network or gas outages during these works however your service provider will let you know if this changes We're getting ready to reopen the doors to our Watsonia Community Information Hub with a range of COVIDSafe measures in place Keep an eye out on our social media for an opening date Our friendly team are looking forward to chatting to locals about upcoming works in the area and the new North East Link design Don't forget to support the local traders at Watsonia Shops while you're there Victoria’s longest road tunnels will fix the missing link in Melbourne’s freeway network We’ll also complete the Ring Road in Greensborough build Melbourne’s first dedicated busway and the North East Trail In response to community feedback we’re building longer tunnels and simpler underground interchanges with more room for parklands wetlands and a tree-lined Greensborough Road boulevard As well as extending the North East Link tunnels further north an extra 1.9km of the overall tunnel length will now be built using Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) – keeping more work below ground and less disruption above A massive upgrade to the M80 Ring Road will improve traffic flow with new lanes up-to-date technology and 2 new green bridges connecting locals to brand new train station parking in Watsonia We’ll also rebuild and upgrade 2.5km of Greensborough Highway on both sides of North East Link – keeping local roads for local trips Works are continuing safely on the North East Link Program with COVIDSafe plans in place to help protect workers and the community. Strict processes are in place to check and record the vaccination status of workers entering construction sites. For more information about coronavirus COVID-19, please visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au Sign up to our e-newsletter to stay up to date with current works and disruptions happening in Watsonia The North East Link mega-highway will permanently divide Watsonia according to residents who are bitterly disappointed that new designs for the $16.5 billion toll road leave an eight-lane trench splitting their community Victoria’s largest road project will stretch 10 kilometres from Bulleen to Greensborough when it opens in 2028 and include 6.5 kilometres of tunnels It will widen the Eastern Freeway to up to 20 lanes Hesham Mobarek from the Watsonia Traders Association in front of where the North East Link tunnel will emerge the state government released detailed designs for parts of the project including the road’s northern end where it will connect to the Western Ring Road The tollway will emerge from the tunnel just south of the neighbourhood shopping centre in Watsonia 16 kilometres north-east of the Melbourne CBD and run as an eight-lane road trench along the current alignment of Greensborough Road a pharmacist and president of the Watsonia Traders Association said the new designs failed to properly connect the east and western sides of the community – was a key object of the project’s urban design strategy “We’re gutted; we really do feel cheated,” Mobarek said “They’re supposed to be connecting neighbourhoods with a horrible trench disconnecting the community.” Watsonia locals say the North East Link road trench will divide their community.Credit: North East Link Mobarek said two “land bridges” the project promised at Elder Street and Watsonia Road were tokenistic and narrow and failed to lead directly to the central shopping strip and library next to Watsonia Station “For years they’ve been talking about amazing big green bridges to connect the communities but this falls really far short of that – especially relative to other areas of the project,” Mobarek said About 40 to 50 per cent of customers at the shopping strip came from the other side of Greensborough Road Watsonia Station has a small footbridge across the rail tracks leading to the local library and has also been earmarked for a multistorey car park But the train station has unexpectedly been left out of the design plans and replaced with what Mobarek described as a “purple blob” Banyule Council Mayor Peter Castaldo said it was difficult to assess the full impact of the North East Link project without knowing what would happen to the station and agreed that Watsonia would be “cut in half” under the current design “The design fails to put local people first and has not provided a well-connected and integrated design,” he said “The landscaped land bridges in the plans don’t go nearly far enough and getting from one side of Watsonia to the other will require walkers and cyclists to cross over two major roads.” Castaldo said Banyule Council would continue pushing during the three-week design consultation period for more of the highway trench to be covered over to create green space The North East Link project extended the underground tunnels by 1.9 kilometres in 2021 which saved open and green space in communities further south Mobarek said the fact efforts to enhance community amenities in other sections of the project were not being made in Watsonia showed the community was being treated like “second-class citizens” A spokesperson for the North East Link Project said increasing the tunnel further would extend the disruption for years and require more houses to be demolished The council’s proposal to cover the highway trench between Elder Street and Watsonia Road would require a ventilation structure that would be an eyesore for the community local traders and council for the last four years to develop a project that will take 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road and deliver major improvements to how the local community moves around,” the spokesperson said adding that the Watsonia Station car park design would be part of a future plan for the area The state government says the new toll road will be completed in 2028 and will shorten some road journeys by up to 35 minutes The first segments of two tunnel boring machines arrived in Watsonia last month and will begin boring the two 6.5-kilometre tunnels to Bulleen in the middle of next year Get the day’s breaking news, entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy. Sign up to receive our Evening Edition newsletter here. Victoria\\u2019s largest road project will stretch 10 kilometres from Bulleen to Greensborough when it opens in 2028 and include 6.5 kilometres of tunnels the state government released detailed designs for parts of the project including the road\\u2019s northern end said the new designs failed to properly connect the east and western sides of the community \\u2013 was a key object of the project\\u2019s urban design strategy \\u201CWe\\u2019re gutted; we really do feel cheated,\\u201D Mobarek said \\u201CThey\\u2019re supposed to be connecting neighbourhoods with a horrible trench disconnecting the community.\\u201D Mobarek said two \\u201Cland bridges\\u201D the project promised at Elder Street and Watsonia Road were tokenistic and narrow \\u201CFor years they\\u2019ve been talking about amazing big green bridges to connect the communities but this falls really far short of that \\u2013 especially relative to other areas of the project,\\u201D Mobarek said But the train station has unexpectedly been left out of the design plans and replaced with what Mobarek described as a \\u201Cpurple blob\\u201D and agreed that Watsonia would be \\u201Ccut in half\\u201D under the current design \\u201CThe design fails to put local people first and has not provided a well-connected and integrated design,\\u201D he said \\u201CThe landscaped land bridges in the plans don\\u2019t go nearly far enough and getting from one side of Watsonia to the other will require walkers and cyclists to cross over two major roads.\\u201D Castaldo said Banyule Council would continue pushing during the for more of the highway trench to be covered over to create green space Mobarek said the fact efforts to enhance community amenities in other sections of the project were not being made in Watsonia showed the community was being treated like \\u201Csecond-class citizens\\u201D The council\\u2019s proposal to cover the highway trench between Elder Street and Watsonia Road would require a ventilation structure that would be an eyesore for the community \\u201CWe\\u2019ve worked closely with the community local traders and council for the last four years to develop a project that will take 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road and deliver major improvements to how the local community moves around,\\u201D the spokesperson said entertainment ideas and a long read to enjoy After closing its doors earlier this month to make some improvements the Watsonia Hub has reopened We’ve made a few improvements to the space to help keep people informed as works on North East Link progress – adding more project maps project timelines and the latest construction information Drop in and chat to us about any project questions you have or ask us about employment opportunities. You can also complete our skills and jobs enquiry form Watsonia Hub17 Watsonia Road, Watsonia. Opening hours: 10am – 5pm, Monday to Friday. Find us on Google maps The first parts of the massive tunnel boring machines (TBMs) that will dig the North East Link tunnels have completed their journey by sea to the Port of Melbourne and have been transported to their new home in Watsonia the first TBM segments travelled from the Port of Melbourne to Watsonia on oversized trucks in a convoy known as a ‘superload’ over 4m high and more than 9m wide and travel at speeds between 5km/h and 40km/h This is the first of more than 20 superloads that will need to travel from the Port of Melbourne to Watsonia over the next 6 months The TBM segments that are used to build these massive machines will arrive progressively in 3 shipments over the coming months Details will be provided ahead of each overnight superload delivery so that road users can plan ahead and avoid disruptions the 2 TBMs will take around 6 months to assemble on site with the parts lowered into the ground by a 550-tonne crane the TBMs will then work day and night as they dig their way to Bulleen – with the community having the opportunity to help name the TBMs later this year We’re starting works on the M80 Ring Road Completion including a seamless connection to North East Link The M80 Ring Road Completion will take 19,000 cars and trucks a day off Greensborough Road New interchanges at the M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street will ease congestion and slash travel times 10km of walking and cycling paths will help locals get to schools As we prepare to start major construction this year crews are busy establishing work sites across the project area The Frensham Reserve offset car park for Watsonia Station will open in early April This will allow us to close Watsonia Station car park in April and use the space to build the M80 Ring Road Completion Accessible parking spaces and the bus stop will remain within the existing Watsonia Station car park near the station entrance We’ll rebuild a new car park next to the station ready for people to use when the project is complete in 2028 The local community will be able to see and give feedback on the design before construction on the new car park starts We'll carry out most of our works during the day When working extended hours and doing night works we'll provide more information to nearby residents beforehand We’re continuing work to set up site compounds at AK Lines Reserve and Gabonia Avenue Reserve in Watsonia workforce parking and material and equipment storage needed to support major construction Both reserves will be returned to the local community with improvements when the project is completed To ensure local clubs that use the reserves can continue to thrive during construction we’ve built new multimillion dollar facilities at Binnak Park and Greensborough College nearby For the safety of road users and our workers we’re building work areas with access points and haul roads for construction vehicles along the M80 Ring Road Greensborough Bypass and Greensborough Highway Crews will remove selected trees where necessary and clear topsoil to install traffic barriers and fencing Setting up work sites allows us to start utility relocation works install temporary noise walls and realign roads The centre median on Greensborough Highway will soon be removed to realign Greensborough Highway to create space for major construction Reduced speeds and lane closures will be in place over several weekends from Friday 15 March Traffic management will be in place to help people move safely through the area For more information check bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions A longer rail tunnel will run under an upgraded Greensborough Road and new express lanes to North East Link We'll continue to work in and around the rail corridor this year as we prepare to extend the rail tunnel buses will replace trains on sections of the Hurstbridge Line For further details and to plan your journey, please visit ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007 The second round of North East Community Fund recipients have been announced More than 45 projects will receive over $2 million worth of funding to support their local community Watsonia Primary School and Watsonia North Primary School are three recipients of the latest round of funding Concord School will use their $65,000 grant to build a quiet nature play zone to help students to connect with the environment Watsonia Primary School will get almost $55,000 to upgrade the school’s playground and apply acoustic treatments to the community hall Watsonia North Primary School will use their $75,000 grant to build an indigenous garden and outdoor learning space We’ll release information later this year about more funding opportunities in 2024. For more information, please visit northeastlink.vic.gov.au/communityfund will be planted for the M80 Ring Road Completion We’ll plant indigenous trees and vegetation from local regions and use fast-growing native species to help shade walking and cycling paths create new wetland areas and return local reserves We'll also launch the next round of the Backyard Tree Planting Program for residents and community groups later this year This program is on top of work already underway to plant at least two trees for every one removed for construction In an Australian first for the construction industry we’ve successfully trialled 100 per cent recycled cardboard and plastic hoarding panels at our Gabonia Avenue Reserve site compound in Watsonia We're now installing this type of temporary hoarding in various locations across the project Compared with traditional plywood hoardings recycled hoarding is expected to reduce carbon emissions by up to 70 per cent seven kilograms of waste is diverted from landfill Recycled cardboard hoarding also provides better noise protection than traditional plywood hoarding we’ll recycle the hoarding and seek opportunities to reuse panels on other projects We're assembling the first pieces of the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) into the launch box at Watsonia before tunnelling begins later this year We're also constructing an 80-metre tower crane at Lower Plenty which will help support deeper digging at the far southern end of the site Thanks for sharing your feedback on the Urban Design and Landscape Plan (UDLP) while it was on exhibition in October last year We’re working through your comments now and looking at where we can make changes to the project design to reflect what local people want to see in their area We’ll be providing an update later this year ahead of major construction Receive updates about the M80 Ring Road Completion Watsonia Tennis Club is set for a major upgrade to its facilities, thanks to the North East Community Fund The Fund will contribute $91,000 to the tennis club which will be used to create a new accessible entrance to the clubrooms and toilets and create an accessible area for community BBQs and club events The upgrades will allow everyone to access the club’s existing hardcourts – which are some of the only tennis courts in the area that are a suitable surface for wheelchairs The upgrades are all about being more inclusive and allowing everyone to play tennis Club President Danny Hadjiantonakis says the club is committed to helping everyone in the community enjoy the benefits of tennis “The North East Link community fund will allow us to upgrade our facilities for those with disability to be able to allow everybody to come and use the club.” Club Member Greg Bakopoulos says the upgrades will be fantastic for people who want to try wheelchair tennis “It’s going to make things a hell of a lot easier and hopefully it’s going to bring other people To find out more about the North East Community Fund and other projects supported, visit North East Community Fund Waking up at 3.30 am is not good for the body at the best of times I felt it was going to be a great day if I was able to capture the the moment and seize the day before the sun rose to illuminate everything on its journey across the heavens At 4.30 am I walked across the road to the Watsonia RSL with a warm cup of coffee to reduce the chill in the air and warm the cockles of my heart As I made my way across the car park dividing us I observed the headlights of one vehicle being parked while the RSL community bus rolling up with the driver sauntering into the RSL for a cup of coffee The first thing I noticed is the large TAB sign on the wall of the RSL and I frowned that it has come to this A sign of the times when corporations and interested players influence RSL board decisions it is what it is and we mere mortals can but keep our thoughts to ourselves as life continues changing at a pace that at times is beyond our comprehension The roar of a motorcycle was heard at the roundabout a vehicle drove passed stopping momentarily at the pedestrian sign I observe solitary figures approaching the RSL entrance Adrian Hook the radio technician arrived on the scene to set up the communications for the day service The roar of the motorcycle continued in the distance skirting the roundabout about 40 metres to the East followed by the odd vehicle making its way towards the South along Watsonia Road Dennis Gambrellis the Vice President of 96.5 Inner FM operating out of the Warringal Shopping Centre at Heidelberg (Dennis’s ancestors came from the island of Kos in Greece) arrives a presenter of the same radio station has come along to observe the proceedings George is an ex National Serviceman Officer who served with 5/7 RAR sharing information from a bygone era and it was interesting to note that as we age how one mellows with time Throngs of people begin to arrive many with their wives and partners sporting their medals proudly on their chest Three buses pulled up and parked in front of the RSL lights flashing idling their engines in preparation to advance to their destination A young lass in uniform arrives with her mother who is a member of 39 Army Cadet Unit overcoats and warm clothing keeps the cold of dawn at bay I am wearing my Spartan jacket over my warm t-shirt with a collar This keeps the warmth in and the cold at bay The radio station plays magnificent background music which I am advised is ADAGIO in G minor followed by an introduction by the President of the Heidelberg radio station A wonderful introduction to those beginning to arrive After a while music began to be beamed from a huge screen located at one end of the RSL I bade farewell to George and returned home for a quick bite to eat and to the warmth of home Our home is a mere 75 paces directly across from the RSL giving us prime view of the ANZAC Day proceedings At 5.59 am I returned back to the RSL for the dawn service followed by the President opening the ANZAC Day service for 2023 His introduction was followed by the Lords prayer Colin Brooks the local State member and Minister was next cab up the rank reminding all those present of Gallipoli and of what the nation suffered as a result of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice Colin Brooks went through the various generations and described each generations service to the nation and that of the world Another presenter gave an interesting outline of all the conflicts that Australia had been involved in and thanked veterans who had served who is alleged to have spoken the immortal words dedicated to those who fought at Gallipoli history has demonstrated that those fine and passionate words were not uttered by Kemal Ataturk but have somehow been constantly repeated over the years and became part of the ANZAC legend the colours of Dawn were slowly rising from its slumber navigating across the roof tops in the distance One could see the crowd of people that had come to the service and it was a wonder to behold In my 30 years of coming to the Watsonia RSL for the Dawn service this was by far the most numerous that I had ever witnessed I looked at all the faces trying to to identify someone from my youth The president spoke again and there was utter silence followed by the last post and a minutes silence of families who had lost loved ones and of mates since gone onto another field of play My thoughts were interrupted by a bugle sound that signalled for the time honoured one minutes silence Thoughts of goodwill for all mankind and of mates long gone meandered through my brain The silence was pure gold and looking up into the East I could see that the suns rays began to strike the heavens and the arrival of a new day The next bugle call brought the silence to an end and the beginning of another year of hope At the end the New Zealand and Australian national anthems were played As the suns rays began to reach us I saw that the crowd had swelled considerably over the space of some thirty minutes They had come from all over the place in their dribs and drabs; the young families and veterans congregating in the car park and using it as a parade ground for visitors and passer by alike I would say that over 1500 people had arrived to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn service followed by Gunfire Breakfast at a small cost of $5 per head A far cry from the Gunfire breakfasts held by that indomitable and much loved character of Bruce Ruxton a time when many from all walks of life would stroll to his office to attend the Gunfire breakfast I must add that I was chuffed to be a part of Todays Dawn Service and very pleased to see so many people of all ages attending never given up and always fight the good fight Major upgrades at Binnak Park are now complete with a new pavilion, cricket nets and turf to keep sports clubs playing and thriving while North East Link is built and beyond The new pavilion will provide a great view for spectators as well as female friendly change rooms The upgrades also include fencing and new lighting for the AFL/Cricket oval and improved car parking on the northern and southern sides of the site You’ll have the opportunity to come and see these massive upgrades for yourself once Coronavirus restrictions have eased We're looking forward to moving in and making the most of these fantastic new facilities The new pavilion offers a great view of the ground and we’re excited to see it in action More than 40 trees have been planted to green the area as part of these upgrades These facilities will be enjoyed by the community and Plenty Valley Cricket Club and Watsonia Sporting Club who will be temporarily relocating during major construction of North East Link They will join the park’s existing sporting group The new look Binnak Park is part of our $68 million investment in local sports upgrades supporting the north east community as we build North East Link For more information about upgrades to Binnak Park and other sports facilities in the area, visit our sports facilities page It should be noted that this information is current at the time of publication, however changes may occur. Please visit our website for the latest updates The best local news sent straight to your inbox every workday Make a donation and support the future of journalism and media diversity in the ACT herbaceous garden plant that grows easily in our climate herbaceous plant that emerges in spring ready for flowering It’s from the South African iris family and its reed-like foliage can be used as a background plant that puts on a magnificent display of tall fragrant flowers that slowly open and last for several months They’re available in many colours – pink reds and lilacs – but my favourite is white which gives a bright contrast in the garden They grow from a corm underground and can multiply very easily the better the soil the better the flower display Dividing should be done if the flowering display declines over the years It should be tackled after flowering with a sharp spade and transplanted directly into a well-prepared garden bed Watsonias are tough and don’t need a lot of water; they’re drought tolerant when established and there’s one weed species – Watsonia meriana – that should be removed from the garden It has orange to reddish-purple flowers and grows more singularly but multiplies fast and Manually pulling up the whole plant and corms before flowering will help in eradicating this pest plant which is now on the weeds of national significance list and is affecting natural bushlands around Australia ONE of my favourite trees that is in flower now is the tulip tree (Lirodendron tulipifera) A hardwood native to the eastern US and used for veneers it’s only grown in Australia as an ornamental tree Tulip trees are a medium-to-large size tree (up to 20 metres tall and eight metres wide) with a straight trunk and a conical crown they are a majestic tree to have in a park or large garden but not for small gardens they share the same spectacular flowering and like the same growing conditions – full sun and a slightly acidic soil Its leaves have an unusual four-lobed shape the trees burst into attractive green to orange flowers They are drought tolerant when established and like our cold winters There are some really beautiful specimens of tulip trees around Canberra as street trees and a few in Commonwealth Park There are dwarf varieties – up to 10 metres tall – available overseas that would suit our suburban backyard and would make a terrific shade tree all trees will still need watering (even after rain) to keep the moisture levels up in the soil for the warmer months ahead Watering trees around the drip line with deep water weekly or fortnightly is more beneficial than short watering several times a week jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au there’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in Canberra If you trust our work online and want to enforce the power of independent voices Every dollar of support is invested back into our journalism to help keep citynews.com.au strong and free Become a supporter 'We focus on spending time with our clients to understand how they use their home and their specific comfort needs,' says air conditioning expert PAUL OXFORD in this advertising feature provided by Delta Air Conditioning & Heating Size differences didn't cause any issues when the world's tallest and smallest living dogs met up for a playdate in Idaho The ginkgo tree is in a botanical class of its own – it's not a conifer and doesn't flower or have pollen North East Link is another step closer to slashing travel times and taking trucks off local roads as segments of the first tunnel boring machine (TBM) have been lowered into the ground – as the project gets ready to dig the twin road tunnels The assembly is taking place at the TBM launch box in Watsonia where two of the largest TBMs in the southern hemisphere will start digging the 6.5km tunnels in mid-2024 The first pieces of the huge machines have been lowered into the ground by a 550-tonne gantry crane – when assembled each 4000-tonne TBMs will be 90 metres long and more than 15 metres in diameter the TBMs will start working their way south from Watsonia toward Bulleen installing tunnel walls made of almost 44,000 individual concrete segments manufactured locally in Benalla a massive amount of work is underway to prepare for tunnelling The 200-metre-long TBM launch box in Watsonia is complete and work has started on the underground box structures near Lower Plenty and Manningham roads where the TBMs will excavate into on their journey south From late March drivers in Bulleen will notice changes to how they use Bulleen Road, Manningham Road and Bridge Street to allow for further works to continue on the Manningham interchange. These changes will stay in place for up to 2 years to keep traffic moving during construction. Find out more by reading the fact sheet - Changes to key roads in Bulleen And barriers and worksites are being set up along the Eastern Freeway and M80 Ring Road so crews can upgrade the freeways that will connect to the North East Link tunnels – to cut travel times by up to 35 minutes We send out regular information about the progress of North East Link and works happening We’re also helping deliver one of the biggest tree planting programs for a major road project in Victoria The M80 Ring Road Completion will take 19,000 cars and trucks off Greensborough Road a day and give local roads back to local people We'll upgrade the M80 Ring Road with new lanes and a new M80 interchange A new Grimshaw Street interchange will keep traffic moving We're also building 10km of walking and cycling paths and two landscaped bridges to Watsonia Station and shops will make it easier for locals to get around To deliver these upgrades some trees will need to be removed and replaced through new planting For every tree removed for the M80 Ring Road Completion Together with North East Link and the Eastern Freeway Upgrades we're increasing tree canopy cover in Melbourne's north east with the first trees already in the ground in local parks Trees will be planted to help screen and filter views of new noise walls support wildlife habitat and return improved open spaces where it is needed to support construction We'll also be creating new wetland areas at the M80 Ring Road We’ll be planting indigenous trees and vegetation from local regions We're carefully staging our works to return open space to the public as soon as possible We know trees are important to the local community and we're working hard to keep and protect as many trees as possible We've reduced the area needed to support construction at the M80 Ring Road Trist Street Reserve and Gabonia Avenue Reserve to keep more existing trees and are maximising opportunities for new trees to be planted after construction we will be working with qualified ecologists to plan and manage how works will take place including to determine which trees need to be protected and which trees need to be replaced through new planting To ensure trees and vegetation are correctly identified – and protected where possible – a rigorous process of fencing flagging and final review by an expert arborist occurs before works start Regular inspections are also undertaken by an Independent Environmental Auditor Extensive field surveys will help identify animals that will need to be re-homed qualified ecologists and animal handlers will find and safely move animals to a similar habitat nearby Wherever possible trees that have been removed will be re-used for landscaping and urban design or for local community and sustainability projects If you’re part of a group that could use timber for local community initiatives upgrade the Eastern Freeway and build North East Link more than 30,000 trees will be planted across Melbourne’s north and east More than 2500 trees have already been planted through our early tree planting program Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format. If you need assistance because of a hearing or speech impairment, please visit relayservice.gov.au This information is current at the time of publication, however changes may occur. Please visit our website for the latest updates. Receive updates about the M80 Ring Road Completion. Play Duration: 7 minutes 55 seconds7m Brought to you by Residents of Watsonia are feeling duped after designs for a road as part of the North East Link were updated. Pharmacy owner Hesham Morabek says the new design lacks walking access and greenery that was originally promised. The North East Link program says Watsonia will recieve 'two green bridges'.(Supplied: Victoria's Big Build ) Download the ABC listen app to text and call your favourite live radio Are you ready to join the thousands of companies who rely on Blue Book to drive smarter decisions We’d love to show you what Blue Book can do for you Drop us a line– we’ve been waiting for you and shipper of fresh peaches in the Eastern United States This collaboration marks an exciting expansion of Titan Farms’ offerings introducing Certified Organic Peaches to its premium portfolio Watsonia Farms has built a legacy of sustainability The farm’s dedication to organic practices and environmental stewardship makes it a natural fit for Titan Farms’ commitment to delivering the highest-quality peaches to consumers nationwide expressed enthusiasm about the partnership “We are thrilled to join forces with Watsonia Farms to bring organic peaches to market Their long-standing dedication to organic farming combined with our expertise in quality and food safety ensures that customers will receive the best tasting organic peaches available This partnership represents our commitment to meeting the evolving demands of today’s consumers while maintaining the high standards Titan Farms is known for.” “Partnering with Titan Farms is an incredible opportunity to bring our organic peaches to a broader market while maintaining the quality and sustainability that have been the foundation of our farm for over a century,” said Jerry Watson “Our family has always believed in the power of collaboration and innovation and working alongside Titan Farms allows us to continue that legacy We look forward to growing together and providing consumers with the freshest best-tasting organic peaches available.” Titan Farms will offer organic peaches in multiple pack styles which is available with a pre-season commitment Titan Farms looks forward to bringing premium organic peaches to consumers through this partnership continuing both farms’ long-standing tradition of excellence For more information, visit www.titanfarms.com Founded in 1999 by Chalmers and Lori Anne Carr packer and shipper of fresh peaches and vegetables With core values focused on producing the highest quality produce in the market you are sure to take home the freshest produce they have available Titan Farms is the largest peach grower on the east coast 250 acres of bell pepper and 350 acres of broccoli including long-time employees who have become part of their Titan family has been producing top quality agricultural products for over 100 years.  Joseph H Watson’s leadership played a pivotal role in organizing peach farmers in the early stages to improve effective planting and harvesting practices as well as introducing other new crops in the Ridge area of South Carolina.  Peaches became a cornerstone crop for the Watson Family while committing to produce at the highest quality and most flavorful.  In 2005 Watsonia Farms made the significant transition to an organic farm further emphasizing its dedication to sustainable farming practices The Watsons are proudly devoted to the health of the farm’s land and the well-being of all customers kathryn@goldensuninsights.com Get access to all the news and analysis you need to make the right decision --- delivered to your inbox The Chilean/Peruvian offshore season will wrap up over the next four weeks Expect pricing to increase as the offshore season winds down The Foundation For Fresh Produce held its annual Consumer Connection Conference April 28-30 tangy refreshment of California-grown grapefruit and introducing a new way to enjoy it Instacart announced its acquisition of Wynshop a provider of e-commerce solutions for leading grocers and retailers Subway is stepping in to make dining decisions even easier with the return of $6.99 Any Footlong all month long Lipman Family Farms announces the acquisition of Shelton & Sons a trusted tomato grower based in Morristown