Optus is continuing to invest in its network and services in regional Australia with the latest investment in Bendigo in Victoria of $2.8 million aimed at improving 4G mobile coverage over the next 18 months.
Optus’ regional market manager for Bendigo, Duane Dalton, said this investment would further improve network coverage for Optus customers across the region.
“As one of the largest regional centres in Australia, with a thriving local business community and growing population, we know how important fast and effective mobile coverage is to the people of Bendigo.
“In the next 18 months, an additional three new sites are planned, with residents and business owners in Kangaroo Flat South and Maiden Gully South set to benefit as well as people attending events at Bendigo Showgrounds.”
In the past 12 months, Optus has invested $1.85 million to build four new sites at Ironbark, Quarry Hill, Bendigo South and Epsom, and upgraded a fifth site at Long Gully, which the telco says has vastly improved coverage and the customer experience for residents and local business owners.
Bendigo Hospital recently benefitted as well, with a dedicated solution to enhance coverage within the building now providing Optus 3G and 4G services.
And, as previously announced, new sites will also be built at Jackass Flats and Flora Hill.
Bendigo MP Lisa Chesters, said, “Constituents of Bendigo rely on mobile connectivity more than ever, whether it is people trying to run a business, children trying to do their homework or even simply trying to communicate with friends and family, so much of our lives is now online.
“This investment from Optus comes at a vital time when locals have been pleading for increased connectivity on the local mobile network.”
Optus says that, in addition to building two new sites, it will continue work to upgrade existing infrastructure at Bendigo Tafe, Whitehills, Huntly, Epsom, Eaglehawk, Kangaroo Flat and Strathdale.