A second mobile telecommunications base station has been erected in Norseman in what has been dubbed a “game-changer” for network coverage in the Goldfields town.
The site, funded by Telstra through the Turnbull Government’s Mobile Black Spot program, was activated last month, and joins the site already based about 7km from Norseman’s centre.
Norseman Hotel owner-manager Claye Poletti welcomed the tower, citing frustration with the previous phone coverage, and said it was much-needed infrastructure for his business.
“It will make things a lot easier,” he said.
“The phone service was no good before, so this should help us out a fair bit.”
The new site is equipped with 3G and 4GX service technology to provide a much faster mobile network to customers as well as more consistent data speeds.
Telstra area general manager Boyd Brown said the station would improve coverage to benefit the town’s residents and passing motorists.
“A new mobile base station is a game-changer in supporting the local residents, tourists and businesses in and around Norseman,” Mr Brown said.
“The growing use of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets is changing the way we live, and we’re acutely aware of the challenges facing communities living with limited access to a mobile network.”
The Mobile Black Spot Program provides mobile coverage expansions across regional and remote Australia.
Telstra activated three Goldfields sites in September last year at Scaddan West, Dalyup and Dalyup North to supply 4G mobile coverage.
Mr Brown said the second tower would guarantee improved mobile coverage in Norseman.
“This is a great outcome for people living and working in this regional community,” he said.
“The Goldfields-Esperance is a major mining and agricultural region, and we’re working hard to connect more rural communities in this dynamic area through Telstra-funded sites or through the Federal Government’s Mobile Black Spot program.”
Source: https://thewest.com.au/news/kalgoorlie-miner/new-station-to-connect-community-ng-b88789965z