Addressing critical telecommunications issues in South Corowa was the main purpose of a visit to Corowa by Federal Member for Farrer, Sussan Ley and the Shadow Minister for Communications, David Coleman on Monday, October 14.
The ongoing connectivity challenges faced by local residents, businesses, and community assets such as the Corowa Golf Club and the Corowa Race Club was conveyed by Federation Council and Regional Business Chamber.
Mr Coleman was advised of the profound impact that poor telecommunications have on the local economy. Corowa Golf Club CEO Kim Gregg highlighted how connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially for rural areas like Corowa.
“The lack of reliable telecommunications affects not only the local economy but also the ability to attract and retain visitors,” she said.
Chamber executive officer John Crothers advised, that in discussions with Telstra, constructing a telecommunications tower could cost approximately $1 million.
“Telstra would aim to pitch for this funding internally, but if unsuccessful, they would seek state or federal funding opportunities,” Mr Crothers said.
Satellite technology, which may be implemented in the next few years, was also raised as a potential solution. However, it was acknowledged that while satellite technology could support phone voice and text communications, data technology - crucial for many modern applications - would still be limited.
This could pose challenges for venues like the golf club and the race club when hosting large events.
The impact on local tourism was also a major topic of discussion. With South Corowa's reputation as a destination for events and leisure, inadequate telecommunications services negatively affect the visitor experience, including accommodation and camping decisions. The Corowa Race Club’s Vice President, Frank Clifford advised that they have been forced to manage large events with limited connectivity, which can deter repeat visitors. This is issue on major race days when large crowds expect reliable service.
Furthermore, the meeting also touched on how poor connectivity impacts emergency services. Phil Willcoxson, Paramedic and Golf Club Board member, highlighted the importance of sharing data on patients before arrival at a hospital, and any delay or disruption in communication could potentially cost lives. It was noted that Victoria has already acknowledged that emergency services cannot operate without connectivity, and the same must be considered for New South Wales.
The discussions extended to the possibility of working with telecommunications companies like Optus and Vodafone to co-locate towers, sharing infrastructure to deliver better coverage to the region.
Mr Coleman and Ms Ley urged the community and key stakeholders to unite in seeking government support. By working together as one voice across the Corowa Golf Club, the Race Club and residents, supported by local, regional and federal governments, there is a real opportunity to secure government subsidies or grants. This could make the significant investment feasible, thereby providing the much-needed telecommunications infrastructure.
South Corowa residents or workers recognise that laying cables or installing a tower is not a small task, but say it is time to address this need in South Corowa.
“We are ready to lobby all relevant parties. The government, Telstra, and other potential stakeholders need to realise the pressing need for improved connectivity in our community,” residents said.
“The visit by Ms Ley and Mr Coleman concluded with a sense of urgency, but also with optimism according to Mr Crothers.
“By combining efforts across the community and working closely with government bodies, there is hope that South Corowa’s longstanding telecommunications challenges will soon be a thing of the past, paving the way for economic growth and a more connected future,” he said.
In originating an on-line petition, Corowa Golf Club delivers the following plea to everyone who has anything to do communication-wise with South Corowa.
“Friends, businesses, family, neighbours, we call on you: your signature, your voice can help get South Corowa the mobile and internet connectivity it deserves. Stand with us, sign this petition now. Let's strive together for a better, connected tomorrow for South Corowa.”