Vocus People
From copper wires to national logistics
Rocco Cartelli - affectionately known as Rocky - has built a career defined by growth, adaptability, grit, and a passion for telecommunications. As a keen learner, he began his career mastering copper jointing and fibre splicing in the days of manual microscopes and machines — a far cry from the automation and tools available today.
“Growing up in Kensington, VIC, I learned early on that nothing comes easy — you have to fight for everything you have. That determination has guided me throughout my career.”
Over the years Rocky worked his way through various design and engineering roles in Australia, Indonesia and Singapore, having a hand in many challenging and exciting projects, some of which underpin Australia’s digital infrastructure today.
His keen interest in large-scale fibre and network projects, and Vocus’ (then Nextgen Networks) innovative approach, attracted him to the business more than 25 years ago. Throughout the years, his career evolved into logistics, and today he proudly leads the national logistics team.
A strong backbone
One of the most memorable projects Rocky recalls was Vocus’ initial fibre cabling network build from 2001-2003, which created one of Australia’s first independent fibre backbones. As a route designer, Rocky helped shape the initial fibre cabling plans for the Melbourne–Adelaide and Melbourne–Sydney routes as well as construction of new nodes (network connection points).
“Anyone who’s worked on major cable rollouts, like today’s Project Horizon, will understand the complexities involved — from tight timelines and tough site conditions, to working with multiple teams and stakeholders across regions, including private landowners, Traditional Owners and National Parks teams.
“It’s a beautiful thing, taking teamwork, resilience, and careful planning and problem-solving at every stage. It's phenomenal when you think about what one little fibre can do today and we’re working with 400 gigs!”
Make it happen mindset
What stands out to Rocky most about the Vocus team is the “make it happen” mindset.
“It’s a culture where people step up, look after their mates, and work as one to deliver results.”
Rocky recalls a recent situation where delivery timelines were tight, customer expectations were high, and teams from multiple areas of the business needed to come together quickly.
“Instead of working in silos, our logistics, projects, procurement, and warehouse teams came together immediately sharing updates, reallocating resources, and supporting each other without hesitation.”
From marbles to mobile phones
"Being part of Gen X, I’ve seen the world totally transform — from playing marbles in the street as a kid to everyone carrying mobile phones and becoming constantly connected. It’s a marvel that we get to continue being part of this amazing change.”
Rocky says he’s blown away by how technology, collaboration, and innovation are reshaping logistics as well.
“With our new 2,000 square metre warehouse, having the right tech to support us is critical. WHS systems now automate inductions, track training, manage incidents, and provide real-time reporting. Smarter warehousing tech like scanners, management systems and induction processes help make us faster and safer, like the lifting aids we use — they reduce manual handling and protecting our team. Seeing what these improvements can do for our team and customers excites me — it makes me want to keep learning.”
It’s all about relationships
Rocky has two adult children, both married, each with two children of their own and says family is everything to him.
“That’s another thing I love about Vocus — It’s a business that supports its people, not just in our careers but in family life too.
“The people and relationships have made the work meaningful for so many years. I’m proud of the networks we’ve built over the 25-plus years I’ve been here, but also of the way I’ve been able to show up for my family.
Rocky is proud to be a Vocus team member and is a true example of how individuals can thrive when they have access to an interesting and dynamic career, an engaging and results-driven team, and a culture that encourages them to grow both inside and outside of the workplace.
“If I was to give someone entering the industry advice, I’d tell them to stay curious, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. This industry moves quickly, and you learn the most by getting involved, asking for guidance, and understanding how different parts of the business connect. It takes effort, teamwork, and initiative to genuinely create opportunities that can take you anywhere.”
