NEWROC Telecommunications network launched
May 11, 2018 at 10:50 AM
The North Eastern Wheatbelt Regional organisation of Councils (NEWROC) Telecommunications Network will provide super-fast internet to the residents and businesses in the Shires of Koorda, Mount Marshall, Mukinbudin, Nungarin, Trayning and Wyalkatchem.
At a network luncheon in Nungarin on 11 April 2018, Cr Quentin Davies, Chair of NEWROC, together with Ms Melissa Price MP, Member for Durack and Leigh Ballard, CEO, Crisp Wireless launched the Telecommunications Network.
The Shires involved have had ongoing issues with digital connectivity. Efficient and reliable connection to internet and mobile phone services in isolated regions is of the upmost importance for health and safety, business, economic development and social connectedness.
“We have super-fast internet today because NEWROC recognised that in a global economy we could not afford to sit in rural WA waiting for our internet connection to either start or catch up with the job we were asking it to do, while people in other parts of the world were six jobs ahead” Cr Davies said.
“Access to internet services that are fit for purpose and up to business standards in a global economy is absolutely essential, not optional.”
NEWROC was successful in securing $700,000 from the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, as well as financial support of $18,000 from each of the NEWROC Shires, the Shire of Merredin and Bendigo Bank Mukinbudin.
Speaking at the launch Ms Melissa Price MP said the whole of Australia is watching how this project progresses as it could lead the way in regional communications.
“We are very pleased the Federal Government has supported this project with a $700,000 contribution from the Building Better Regions fund, and commend NEWROC on working together and thinking outside the box” Ms Price said.
Up to thirteen telecommunications towers will be built, providing a self-sustaining network that provides ongoing super-fast internet speeds of 100 megabytes per second and unlimited download capacity to businesses across the NEWROC Shires and the Shire of Merredin.
Crisp Wireless, based in Narrogin, won the competitive tender to provide a tailored solution to the Shires. The state-of-the-art fixed wireless infrastructure provided by Crisp Wireless will open up new possibilities to residents and businesses.
“What comes next for businesses and residents with this technology is endless” said Crisp Wireless CEO, Leigh Ballard.
The internet packages on offer are opt in, and will also assist many emergency service providers, and government departments operating in the district.
Residents and businesses in the NEWROC area and Shire of Merredin can register their interest in a high speed plan at www.fasterinternet.com.au
View the full media release here.
For more information, contact NEWROC Executive Officer, Caroline Robinson on 9880 8035 or caroline@solum.net.au.
