History of the Telstra Research Laboratories

Closure of TRL

An interview with JC

BD: Tell me, is Telstra closing its labs at Clayton?
JC: (as Telstra spokesman Mr Ponder): No not at all. We will maintain a magnificent world class R&D facility in that heart of Melbourne's R&D precinct - Clayton.
BD: And there will not be staff cuts?
JC: As I said we will maintain a truly magnificent world class R&D facility. It's amazing what those boffins in white coats can do! Right across the road from Monash University.
BD: And what about the staff? Will the same staff be working there?
JC: Yes some of the same staff will be working there and we'll have some new ones too, adding extra intellectual horsepower to the research juggernaut that is TRL. They are just unstoppable, those guys. And quite a few ladies too. You have to be extremely bright to work there.
BD: So what is the APESMA doing in complaining about staff cuts?
JC: I'm glad that you asked that! What are APESMA doing? I'd like you to tell me! They seem to be running down the great R&D facility that we have a Clayton. Did you know that it has been going since the 1920's? What a marvelous tradition it has!
BD: So you will maintain the buildings, but what about the people?
JC: The people? Ahh, only the best will do at TRL. Do you know how many PhD's they have there? I don't have the exact figures but it's huge!
BD: And how many will work there after the restructure?
JC: Think of Telstra as great ocean liner, whose passengers are the customers. Some TRL staff will join the office of the CTO, developing value-creating strategies for the stakeholders, it's like working on the bridge of a luxury cruise ship, you get a magnificent view of where you are heading.
Some will work in the Network Engineering Group, the engine room, tending the mighty engines that let the passengers enjoy their journey in exceptional comfort and service.
BD: And will all TRL staff be invited to join the crew of this great vessel?
JC: Well, no, there's only room for so many oars below deck. And you have to have space for the guy that beats the drum. Those drums take a bit a space, you know.
BD: Thanks you Mr Ponder, for giving us something to ponder.
JC: It's my pleasure. We look forward to you traveling with us!