Telstra boosts mobile coverage at Cobungra in Alpine region

Telstra has announced a new mobile site has been switched on as part of the Victorian Government’s Mobile Black Spot Project, improving coverage to Cobungra.

Telstra Regional General Manager Loretta Willaton said the new site would improve upon Telstra’s existing coverage across Victoria’s Alpine region.

“Switching on this new mobile site removes a notorious black spot around Cobungra, bringing dedicated Telstra mobile coverage to this area for the first time,” Ms Willaton said.

“The new tower will provide better coverage to the community around Cobungra as well as parts of the Great Alpine Way between Dinner Plain and Omeo.”

“The Alpine region of Victoria is a challenging area to deliver mobile coverage owing to its terrain and topography – but we’re committed to delivering vital infrastructure and boosting connectivity through this area.”

Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said local communities had been vital in helping provide feedback on the locations and sites as part of the Victorian Government’s Mobile Black Spot Project.

“We’ve already delivered more than 150 new mobile towers, getting on with the job of enabling better connectivity for our regional communities."

"This is a really welcome announcement for the community of Cobungra and will be crucial in ensuring connectivity for residents and visitors alike and play an important role in our emergency management plans for the future," Minister Symes said.

Omeo resident Natalie O’Connell, who’s also part of Telstra’s Regional Advisory Council, said locals are happy the mobile site has been switched on.

“It’s great news for the local community to have dedicated mobile reception at Cobungra,” Ms O’Connell said.

“This is important not only because the Great Alpine Road is a major tourist route but also important for emergency service providers and the many farming properties and residents in the area.”

The new site will provide another way for residents and visitors to stay up to date with important alerts and in the event of an emergency.

Telstra is delivering 17 mobile sites as part of the $11 million third round of the Victorian Government’s Mobile Black Spot Project including Cheshunt, Tubbut, Gelantipy, Strath Creek South, Buckland Valley and Carboor.

Telstra media contact: 

Matt Smithson - State Media Manager (VIC/TAS)
E: media@team.telstra.com
Media ref number: 079/2020