State Member for Euroa Steph Ryan said she welcomed news the community was included under round five of the Federal Government’s Mobile Blackspot Program.
“Mobile coverage across the Euroa electorate is patchy, but we have seen some real improvements through the investments that the Federal Government has made to fix blackspots,” Ms Ryan said.
The Optus macrocell base station announced for Mount Bruno will improve and extend mobile phone coverage to the surrounding area.
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“Importantly, other telcos will be able to strike an arrangement with Optus to use this tower, which would make it a win for customers of all providers,” Ms Ryan said.
Ms Ryan also paid tribute to the Federal Nationals, which had driven the program within the Federal Coalition.
“The blackspot program exists because The Nationals understand how important proper mobile phone coverage is to the future of our communities,” Ms Ryan said.
“Funding for mobile blackspots has been a non-negotiable for the Federal Nationals in the Coalition, and I acknowledge the work my Federal colleagues have done to ensure regional communities do not get left behind.”
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Ms Ryan said she was aware there were many other communities across the electorate, such as Redesdale, Toolleen, Goorambat and Marraweeney, which were frustrated by a persistent lack of mobile and internet coverage.
“This outcome shows we can get results when we work together and we continue to beat the drum,” she said.
Federal Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie also welcomed the news.
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“It’s positive news (that) even more parts of the North East . . . will soon be benefiting from improved mobile connectivity provided by these new base stations,” Senator McKenzie said.
“The Mobile Black Spot Program is a top priority of The Nationals in government; we understand the critical importance of improving digital connectivity in regional, rural and remote Australia.
“I saw first-hand just how important a strong telecommunication network is during the January bushfires in the Upper Murray and I’m grateful to see some of those hard-hit communities like Cudgewa and Jingellic have been included in Round Five.
“The Mobile Black Spot Program helps keep people safe with improved natural disaster warnings and, as we are seeing during this COVID-19 pandemic, is incredibly important in enabling families and friends to stay connected.”
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