Mooroolbark milestone moment

The 350 tonne and 500 tonne cranes work together to lift the beams.

By Mikayla van Loon

Milestone progress has been made on the Manchester Road level crossing removal project, with the first two of four bridge beams being installed on Monday 17 May.

The 120 tonne L-beams will form the base of the new skyrail bridge that will improve congestion in Mooroolbark around the railway crossing.

More than 100 locals went to watch the 31 metre-long beams be installed from a viewing platform.

Transported from Kilmore, the beams had to be lifted into place by a 350 tonne crane and a 500 tonne crane working together.

Another viewing session will occur tonight, Tuesday 18 May, from 10pm where the final two beams will be installed.

It is expected that boom gates will be gone ahead of schedule and the new station will be open by Christmas.