Telecommunication Forums Provide Helpful Support
Published on 16 October 2024
“After many years of telecommunications providers not delivering for regional areas, it is no surprise that many residents are frustrated. However, recent telecommunication forums held across the region have demonstrated that some solutions are within our control," said the Mayor, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM.
“Many forum attendees were supported with solutions to their telecommunications needs. Whether it was their ability to migrate their existing connectivity to fibre or fixed wireless, or assistance with aftermarket applications that extend the range of their current telecommunications devices.
“Communications service delivery is not a core responsibility of Council. We, like everyone, are users of communications and understand how critical it is for servicing our area whether it be for personal, family, safety or business needs, similarly as a user we suffer the same frustrations. The aim of the forums was to connect residents and businesses directly with the telecommunications representatives that could assist.
“The independent, free Regional Tech Hub, funded by the Australian government and run by the National Farmers Federation, is one positive, now assisting individuals and businesses in regional areas. I encourage residents and businesses to take advantage of this opportunity,” said the Mayor.
The recently hosted technology forums held in Goondiwindi, Inglewood, Texas, and Yelarbon, also addressed the upcoming cessation of 3G networks and provided updates on broadband infrastructure.
The Mayor said, “Council representatives took the opportunity to raise concerns on behalf of local residents and businesses regarding the impact of the 3G network shutdown. Stakeholders were reminded that the switch to 4G will commence nationally from the 28th of October. Telstra will provide more information closer to the date, but the current advice is that Queensland is not the first state to be switched over, it could therefore take time after the 28th October for us to be certain of the full impacts of this rollover.”
“Council will be keeping a watching brief on how the mobile coverage service performs after the rollover occurs.
“The National Broadband Network (NBN) also advised attendees at the forum that fibre broadband rollout is progressing in the region. In parts of Goondiwindi town there have been upgrades that include fibre to the premises, and in Inglewood fibre to the node.
In Texas and Yelarbon, the NBN are rolling out high-speed, unlimited data via fixed wireless broadband for users data needs. Importantly the reach of this new network is expected to extend the service area from 14km to 29km from the towers, depending on terrain.
“The improved fixed wireless network option is nationally expected to move tens of thousands of data users off the Sky Muster satellite network. This will ultimately provide additional capacity and functionality for the users that remain on the Sky Muster network throughout other parts of our region.
Councillors and attendees also took the opportunity to raise issues affecting communities in the western part of our region including mobile coverage and broadband internet.
While the quality of telecommunications services in the past has been below par, Council encourages residents to explore the available options and take advantage of the advancements in technology.
Some of the key messages from the forum included:
- The Regional Tech Hub is a free and independent service that assists residents and businesses with all technology queries. Whether you need help setting up your new 4G-compatible devices or understanding the latest updates. You can contact them at 1300 081 029.
- Residents are urged to ensure their devices are 4G compliant. For mobile phones, simply text "3G" to 3498. Other devices, such as booster extensions, will likely require proper installation and the latest updates to be compatible with the new 4G network.
- Residents are advised to take charge of their telecommunications needs by exploring alternative network options, such as fixed wireless or satellite networks. The significant improvements in these networks in recent years may be a more viable and practical choice.