Leading innovation with Astro the Robot Dog

Challenge

Overcoming connectivity barriers

John Holland’s projects often operate in confined, challenging locations where conventional connectivity solutions fail to deliver, such as underground. Ensuring consistent voice and data access underground was essential for safety protocols, personnel tracking, and operational efficiency. The complexity of these environments was compounded by the need for real-time data capture and reporting. And traditional approaches relied on expensive fixed sensors, which limited flexibility and scalability, making it difficult to adapt to the unique requirements of each project.

Project teams needed to balance the demands of delivering for customers, and complex regulatory requirements while maintaining a strong focus on safety and environmental outcomes. 

To overcome these barriers, John Holland and Telstra adopted a strategic approach that emphasised agility, innovation, and collaboration. Together, they trialled the use of a robotic dog ‘Astro’ equipped with advanced environmental sensors and 5G connectivity to enhance safety in challenging environments, such as tunnels and underground rail stations.

The ability to capture, store, and replay operational video provided valuable insights for decision-making and risk management, while real-time monitoring and data capture enabled more effective project observability. 

Solution

Astro the Robot Dog

In response to the challenges faced in underground and difficult-to-access locations, Telstra and John Holland implemented a suite of advanced technologies designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and project observability. 

Developed as a proof of concept by Telstra Enterprise, the company’s innovation hub for ideas, products and technology, muru-D, and technology solution partner, Ericom, Astro the robot dog was successfully trialled in collaboration with John Holland in an underground construction site in Melbourne. 

Astro uses IoT, cloud technology and 5G connectivity to test the potential to test hazardous conditions, enabling real-time monitoring and improved operational insights.

The deployment allows ability to provide reliable connectivity, real-time monitoring, and data capture in challenging environments. These solutions enabled consistent voice and app access for workers, even in the most confined spaces, supporting critical safety protocols and operational needs.

The integration of these technologies allowed for the capture, storage, and replay of operational video, showing how it could improve communication and project management. Real-time data capture and monitoring provided valuable insights into project performance, enabling teams to make informed decisions and respond quickly to emerging risks. The flexible, resilient network foundation supported innovative applications, showing how it could help John Holland meet business challenges and regulatory requirements while advancing sustainability goals.

By leveraging Telstra’s core networks and digital infrastructure, John Holland was able to create a foundation for ongoing innovation and continuous improvement. The deployment of smart technologies positions the company for the future. 

As the construction industry continues to embrace digital transformation, John Holland’s experience demonstrates the value of investing in advanced solutions that deliver measurable benefits for workers, clients, and communities. 

Approach

Collaborative digital partnership

The approach taken by John Holland and Telstra was rooted in deep collaboration, shared expertise, and a commitment to innovation. Recognising that the challenges of modern construction projects—especially those in challenging, underground environments— both organisations prioritised building a partnership that leveraged the strengths of each team and their extended network of stakeholders.

From the outset, the partnership focused on understanding the unique requirements, this meant engaging not only internal teams. By pooling resources and knowledge, the collaboration was able to design and implement solutions that were both robust and adaptable, capable of meeting stringent safety, regulatory, and operational demands.

Rigorous testing and transparent reporting were key to building trust and validating the predicted benefits of each solution. Stakeholders were kept informed at every stage, and feedback loops allowed for ongoing refinement. This openness fostered a culture of innovation, where new ideas could be trialled and scaled quickly.

Ultimately, the collaborative approach not only delivered tangible results but also laid the groundwork for future innovation. By prioritising partnership, adaptability, and open communication, John Holland and Telstra created a resilient foundation for ongoing digital transformation, setting a new standard for how technology and teamwork can drive success in the construction industry.

Impact

Enhancing safety and efficiency

The trial of technologies such as Astro the Robot Dog from muru-D and Ericom, has the potential to further elevated project observability and operational control. These tools allow for real-time monitoring, data capture, and the ability to store and replay test and operational video. As a result, project managers can make more informed decisions, identify potential hazards before they escalate, and maintain a comprehensive record of site activities for compliance and training purposes.