Improved digital connectivity for Surat goes live

A new telecommunications tower in Surat is now providing improved digital connectivity and coverage across the Surat town and surrounds.

Since being identified as a­­­ key priority for the community of Surat, Council has been working in partnership with the Queensland Government and Telstra to develop a solution to help address the need for improved digital connectivity in the area. 

The Surat Digital Connectivity Project was developed with the support of the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions program in association with Telstra and Maranoa Regional Council. 

From Tuesday, 28 September the new tower officially began delivering improved 4G coverage including voice and data connectivity to Surat and adjoining properties in a radius of approximately 14kms of the new tower.

Mayor Tyson Golder said the new station will make a huge difference to the community of Surat.

“This is great news for the Surat region and a big win for liveability, and will make it even more attractive to re-locate to Surat with improved service,” Cr Golder said.

“The Surat community had identified the need for improved digital connectivity within the town as part of earlier community consultation sessions.

“We would like to thank Telstra and the Queensland Government for partnering with Council to help make this project happen.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Mr Steven Miles said the Queensland Government was pleased to contribute to this project to increase coverage across Surat and surrounds.

“It is more important than ever that regional Queenslanders feel connected to their loved ones, important national information, telehealth medical appointments and global business opportunities,” said Mr Miles.

“The progression of projects like this funded under Building our Regions should give confidence to Queenslanders. It tells them we’re invested in the future.”

Telstra Regional General Manager May Boisen said Telstra was absolutely committed to the people, communities and businesses in regional Queensland and had invested billions of dollars to extend and enhance its mobile network across regional Australia.

“We worked closely with Council to find a solution to improve local mobile coverage and I’m pleased we’re delivering it in partnership with Council and the State Government,” Ms Boisen said.

“When it comes to investing in regional Queensland, Telstra is second to none. We know better than anyone the challenges of providing telecommunications services in regional and rural communities – and the huge benefits for Australia this brings.

“It’s co-investment projects like this that are critical for ensuring our country becomes a leading digital economy and regional Australia doesn’t get left behind.”

The Surat Digital Connectivity Project has been funded by the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions program ($225,000), Telstra ($225,000) and Maranoa Regional Council ($25,000).