In the 21st century one would expect that no home would be without a good internet and mobile service. But that is not the case. The community in the upper Pioneer Valley has had poor, and in some cases no, service. This, I believe, is unacceptable in 2022, so the community decided to do something about it.
After much collaboration with the people in the know, it was suggested we do a community survey in Finch Hatton and Eungella, which produced the evidence needed to prove the substandard telecommunications in that area.
After attending a regional infrastructure telecommunications review, the upper valley will now receive infrastructure to the value of $5.4m in upgrades to install fixed wireless over the next few years.
What is sad is that Slade Point, only 10 minutes from the CBD, also has poor internet and mobile reception, yet there are at least four towers in close proximity. We have to remember that the internet/NBN is one problem and mobile phones are another problem. We need to start having conversations with the powers that be to enlighten them to this issue.
One option for a better mobile service and making your calls is using WIFI calling that seems to be a bit more reliable. I also heard a great story from a resident recently that he changed mobile phone providers and his connectivity is so much better.
Armstrong Beach is at the other end of our region and also has limited internet access. But I did find out that Sky Muster is available to those in that area to assist them get better coverage and can be purchased from several providers. Just go check out NBN “check your address” to see what is available.
If you need a bit of help, then why not contact Regional Tech Hub (regionaltechhub.org.au), which is government funded, and they can do a report specific to your needs.
Better Internet for Rural Regional Remote Australia (birrraus.com) also has provider recommendations that can help you make comparisons and this takes the work out of shopping around. They also have a Facebook page you can get heaps of info from.
I believe good phone and internet service should be accessible to all in our region, regardless of where you live.
Let me know if you need any assistance.
Cr Alison Jones
Mackay Regional Council
cr.alison.jones@mackay.qld.gov.au
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
