Calling all engineering enthusiasts. Before the long-awaited West Gate Tunnel opens to vehicles this December, Victorians are being invited to explore the new tunnels and connecting roads on foot for the very first time. The West Gate Tunnel Discovery Day will take place on Sunday, November 16, giving tens of thousands of locals a once-in-a-generation chance to see the city-shaping project up close (without the exhaust fumes).
For context, the West Gate Tunnel is a new, high-tech alternative to the West Gate Bridge that's set to ease congestion and take 9,000 trucks off local roads in Melbourne’s inner west. Before the tunnel opens to vehicles, Melburnians can lace up for a big eight-kilometre discovery run, or take it slow on the 2.5-kilometre discovery walk, both winding through sections of the brand-new tunnel.
Once you’ve explored the subterranean routes, you can head above ground for more entertainment. Over in Yarraville Gardens, you’ll find a free family-friendly festival packed with live entertainment, food trucks, a kids’ zone and even a West Gate Tunnel driver simulator for those curious about what it’s like behind the wheel.
Each registration for the discovery run will have a positive community impact, supporting two local organisations doing meaningful work in the west: Community Bike Hub, which provides bike access and education, and West Welcome Wagon, which supports asylum seekers and refugees rebuilding their lives in Australia.
Locals will have the first crack at tickets before they’re released to the public on Friday, October 24, with more than 50,000 people expected to attend. Free shuttle buses will run regularly between Footscray Station and Yarraville Gardens on the big day.
Ready to hit the road before anyone else? Early bird registrations are open now over here.
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