Hobsons Bay Main Upgrade

Running underneath the Yarra River between Port Melbourne and Spotswood, the Hobsons Bay Main is a vital component of the city’s sewer network. Although still functioning and not posing any environmental risks, critical works are required to safeguard the existing main for continued future use and long-term reliability. 

A second pipeline parallel to the original has been constructed to divert flows, allow safe rehabilitation of the original pipe, protect the local environment, and provide a significant increase in system capacity to cater for the growing population. 

670 metres of tunnelling across the Yarra River for the new pipeline was completed in late 2023. The new duplicate tunnel was then tested and made operational in October 2024. Rehabilitation and relining work on the original pipeline is now underway, with full project completion expected in late 2026. 

Touch Projects has been engaged in the delivery of this complex, large-scale project through multifaceted project scheduling, comprising the orchestration of project timelines, resource allocation, task sequencing, and risk assessment and mitigation. 

Our role is to ensure the project proceeds smoothly in spite of any unforeseen challenges. Through meticulous planning and detailed scheduling, our work on this project contributes to Melbourne Water’s broader mission of environmental protection and infrastructure reliability. 

The rehabilitation and capacity expansion of the Hobsons Bay Main Sewer also demonstrate Melbourne Water’s dedication to providing essential services while protecting the environment.

The project plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and enhancement of Melbourne’s sewer infrastructure, and forms part of Melbourne Water’s comprehensive sewer program aimed at rejuvenating ageing sewers citywide.