Partnering with the Victorian Government, Optus says the new site means that more than 40 homes will now be able to connect to reliable mobile reception for the first time, providing them with the ability to make and receive calls, texts and browse the internet.

The site is located along Beechworth-Wodonga Road, with the tower to provide coverage North east towards Wodonga.

Andrew Sheridan, Optus’ Vice President of Regulatory and Public Affairs said, “Bringing much needed mobile coverage to the Baranduda Ranges is critical for residents and local communities”.

“It not only means greater safety for those living, working and driving through this area by unlocking access to communication but also helps to facilitate contact with family and friends.

“This site will enable valuable opportunities for the local community, allowing regional Victoria to remain competitive with access to the same resources as the rest of Australia. Competition is not only essential for the economy, but also great for the community, with this new site providing customers with better choice and value.”

“We know how important access to reliable mobile coverage is for those living and working across regional Australia, and right now it is more critical than ever. It’s a certainly a bonus to be delivering this boost at such a crucial time when many families are currently in isolation and staying connected is essential for education, business and personal reasons.”

Optus says it continues to invest in its network to improve coverage, reliability and speed across its Australian mobile network, with the new tower in the Baranduda Ranges providing a “competitive telecommunications alternative for local residents and businesses”.

The mobile black spot program on 83 sites across regional Australia is co-funded by the Federal Government and Optus,

The Federal Government's ongoing Mobile Black Spot Program is co-funding another 83 sites to be developed by Optus.
The 83 sites taken on by Optus are located in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.