Upper Horton gets a new phone tower
PHONE TOWER CAMPAIGN DELIVERS GREAT RESULT
Member for New England and Deputy Prime Minister, Barnaby Joyce is ticking off another achievement today.
Mr Joyce said one of his long-held passions for New England is to reduce the number of mobile phone black spots.
“All too often, hills and valleys, which significantly contribute to the appeal of New England, play havoc with mobile and internet connections, leaving some centres without everyday communications,” Mr Joyce said.
“In particular, the community of Upper Horton has conducted a passionate campaign for improved mobile phone services, and I have fought hard on their behalf.
“As a result, I am pleased to announce that under Round 2 of the Regional Connectivity Program (RCP), Upper Horton is to receive a welcome improvement to its mobile phone coverage,” Mr Joyce said.
The project will deploy a new Telstra small cell mobile site, providing improved handheld coverage. The Federal Government contribution towards the project will be $261,300.
Minister for Regional Communications, Bridget McKenzie said the project forms part of the Coalition Government’s continuing roll-out of the $257 million RCP.
“I acknowledge the support provided by Telstra’s Northern NSW Regional General, Michael Marom and the efforts of Mr Arthur McDouall and his Tower Action Committee which gathered over 600 signatures for improved communication services.
Since becoming the Member for New England, 51 mobile phone base stations have been secured for the electorate. This is the 52nd.
If re-elected on 21 May, I will continue lobbying for even more phone towers, so as far as possible, New England communication black spots are reduced or completely eliminated,” Mr Joyce said.