Residents and visitors to Queensland’s Upper Stone region have better mobile coverage thanks to a new mobile base station funded by the Albanese Government and Telstra.
Delivered through the Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP), the much-needed infrastructure means people living, working and travelling in the area will now be better connected, boosting productivity and public safety.
Upper Stone is a small community west of Ingham, known for sugar-cane farming. Sharing a border with the Girringun National Park, the area is well-known for its walking trails and camping.
Through the MBSP, funding has been awarded for more than 1,400 new mobile base stations, with a combined investment of more than $1 billion.
Funding for recent rounds of the program are part of the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, boosting connectivity right across the country to ensure no Australian is left behind.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
“The Albanese Government continues to deliver improved connectivity that regional communities need through the Mobile Black Spot Program.
“No Australian should be left behind when it comes to connectivity and we are investing heavily in telecommunications infrastructure in partnership with industry to keep places like Upper Stone connected.
“The new base station is important for local farmers as well as tourists taking in the beautiful waterfalls at the nearby Girringun National Park.”
Quotes attributable to Telstra Regional General Manager, Rachel Cliffe
“The new tower at Upper Stone is a significant investment in the connectivity and resilience of the local community. Reliable mobile coverage is essential during times of disaster and emergency, helping residents stay informed, contact emergency services, and keep in touch with family and friends when it matters most.
“Beyond emergencies, this new infrastructure will support day-to-day life and economic activity in the region, including improved connectivity for local farming operations and businesses that increasingly rely on digital technology to remain productive and competitive.
“It has been wonderful to partner with the Australian Government to deliver this crucial technology, ensuring communities like Upper Stone can access the connectivity they need to live, work and thrive.”
