Project update - February 2026

The Eyre Peninsula desalination project has reached a significant milestone with the arrival of its tunnel boring machine (TBM) in Port Lincoln. Measuring 9 metres long and weighing over 61 tonnes, the machine will create the underground tunnel needed to install the plant’s intake and outfall pipes at Billy Lights Point. Following industry tradition, the TBM was officially named during a special ceremony.

The machine has been named ‘Janette’, honouring Janette Hannum Octoman MBE – a respected Tumby Bay civic leader and long‑serving advocate for women through the South Australian Country Women’s Association (CWA). Members of the Octoman family, CWA representatives, the City of Port Lincoln Mayor and project teams attended the ceremony hosted with contractor McConnell Dowell.

With the naming complete, preparation works are advancing, including a 16‑metre‑deep launch shaft where a small statue of Saint Barbara will be placed to symbolically protect workers. ‘Janette’ will soon begin tunnelling 435 metres beneath the shoreline, creating a 2.5‑metre‑diameter passage while transporting excavated material to the surface. Tunnelling is expected to take around 12 weeks once underway in February.

Construction activity continues across the broader project, with earthworks progressing on site and installation of the terrestrial pipeline now underway. Around three‑quarters of the transfer pipeline has already been laid along Proper Bay and Blue Fin roads, with work soon shifting to Greyhound Road. SA Power Networks will also install six new power poles on Windsor Avenue to support the site’s future operations.

Community engagement remains strong, highlighted by SA Water’s presence at this year’s Tunarama Festival, where thousands of locals took part in water‑saving conversations and activities. Residents and community groups are encouraged to stay informed, sign up for construction updates, and contact the project team with any questions as work continues toward securing a reliable water future for the Eyre Peninsula.

Fore more information visit the February newsletter.