Telstra has announced significant upgrades to its mobile base station in Nhill, which will bring enhanced 4G services and introduce 5G coverage to the community. However, these improvements come with a temporary inconvenience—scheduled outages are expected from April 15 to April 19, during which there will be no 3G/4G coverage available from the site.
The network is set to be restored over the weekend of April 20-21. Additional minor interruptions may occur on April 22 as the network undergoes call testing and integration during daylight hours. Telstra will notify its mobile customers through text messages regarding the upcoming work schedule.
The upgrade will not affect landline services, NBN internet services, or mobile coverage from other providers. In an emergency, calls to Triple Zero (000) from Telstra mobiles will automatically be diverted to any available mobile network to connect with emergency services.
Steve Tinker, Regional General Manager for Telstra, acknowledged the timing challenges but emphasized the long-term benefits: “There’s never a good time to undertake this sort of work, but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents.”
Telstra has invested heavily in regional connectivity improvements. Over the past seven years, up to the end of FY23, Telstra has invested $11 billion in its mobile network, with $4 billion dedicated to enhancing the regional mobile network.
Tips for Coping with Connectivity Issues During Upgrades
To mitigate connectivity issues during the upgrades, Telstra suggests residents activate Wi-Fi calling if they have Wi-Fi access at home or work. This feature, available on most modern mobile phones, allows calls to be made and received over a Wi-Fi network. Residents can find more information by searching for “Telstra Wi-Fi calling” on the internet or checking their phone settings.
For businesses relying on the Telstra network for EFTPOS terminals, it’s important to note that Telstra does not operate the EFTPOS network. These are managed by financial institutions. Retailers are encouraged to contact their banks for alternative connection options, such as fixed-line or Wi-Fi/ NBN internet, to ensure continuous service.
At time of going to print a number of businesses in Nhill including IGA, Nhill Pharmacy and Ambers had no eftpos and residents had no phone access.
This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 17 April 2024.
