Gamuda and Partners Recognised as Finalists at 2026 National Infrastructure Awards for World-First Tunnel Innovation
Gamuda, together with trusted partners Laing O’Rourke, SMEC (an SJ Group company) and GHD, has been named a finalist in the Innovation Excellence category at the 2026 Annual Infrastructure Oration and National Infrastructure Awards, held in Melbourne by Infrastructure Partnerships Australia.
The recognition celebrates the team’s outstanding work on the Sydney Metro West Western Tunnelling Package, where the development of a purpose-built Lining Erector Machine and an innovative precast segmental lining system for mined tunnels has redefined what is possible in Australian tunnel construction.
The Lining Erector Machine represents a first of its kind in Australia. Designed and delivered to challenge conventional tunnelling approaches, the system has significantly improved both safety and productivity on the project, while establishing a new industry benchmark that offers a scalable and replicable solution for future tunnelling works across the country and beyond.
Project Director Simon Hussey reflected on the achievement, describing the milestone as a testament to the collaboration, ingenuity and determination of the people and partners involved. He noted that the team has continued to push boundaries and overcome the challenges inherent in such a pioneering project, delivering a genuinely smarter infrastructure solution.
Special recognition was extended to Hau Wei NG, Gusztáv (Gus) Klados, Jeremy Nethercott and Ragu Jayakuma 
ran from Gamuda, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing the innovation to life.
Congratulations were also extended to Melbourne Water, who took home the award on the night in a well-deserved recognition of their own outstanding work.
The finalist acknowledgement from Infrastructure Partnerships Australia reflects the broader significance of the Lining Erector Machine achievement, not only for the Sydney Metro West project but for the future of tunnel construction in Australia.
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