Neumann has no bar for lack of signal in Somerset Region
MOORE and Somerset Dam residents and visitors will soon have added safety when a base station is installed as part of the Mobile Black Spot Programme.
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MOORE and Somerset Dam residents and visitors will soon have added safety when a base station is installed as part of the Mobile Black Spot Programme.
Federal Minister for Blair Shayne Neumann has prioritised improving mobile phone coverage and said it was critical for towns away from urban areas.
Currently there is no mobile phone reception at Moore and Somerset Dam, leaving locals and tourists often frustrated and unable to make important calls.
"In 2011 and 2013 these communities were all cut off by floods, so having good mobile phone coverage is critical," Mr Neumann said.
"Not just in terms of emergency management but economic development, making sure people are safe and secure on the roads and getting kids to school."
Mr Neumann hoped the new towers would be operational by the end of the year, however the department of Communications and the Arts were unable to provide an exact date.
"It's not a quick process," Mr Neumann said.
The improved coverage at Somerset Dam and Moore forms part one of the Mobile Black Spot Programme, however Mr Neumann has identified Esk, Coominya and Toogoolawah as critical locations for round two.
"It's important when people are out on the road they can communicate with friends and relatives for safety reasons," Mr Neumann said.
"It's not the outback, but it's a long way from urban areas."
Tourists have their say on black spots in the Somerset Region
The cool and clean waters of Somerset Dam have always been a special attraction to the region's watercraft enthusiasts and tourists.
From fishing and swimming to jet skiing and wakeboarding, the dam's wide and deep blue expanse proudly caters for all.
However, one area Somerset Dam has fallen short in is the lack of phone coverage.
With Shayne Neumann successfully lobbying for Somerset Dam and Moore in round 1 of the Mobile Black Spot Programme, the issue may soon be resolved.
Lowood resident Ingo Appelt said improved coverage would boost safety in the region.
"If something happens your first port-of -call is the telephone and if you haven't got a phone or coverage then you can't call for help and you have to rely on someone to go somewhere where they can raise someone somehow," Mr Appelt said.
"I think generally when you are in Australia, you need to get mobile phone coverage because anywhere you go you can be 30 to 40 kms from help."
Regularly visiting with family from Maleny, Rob Ewen said he often had to resort to other forms of communication to stay in touch.
"There's never been any reception here, but we like that," Mr Ewen said.
"Sometimes we have UHF walkie talkies, that's the easiest way to stay in touch without a mobile."
However, Mr Ewen admitted improved coverage would be of value to many visiting the dam.
"I reckon it would be great," he said.
"You can't call or text anyone and they can't call you and if anyone comes you don't know when they are coming or if they are still coming. It would be a lot handier."
Brisbane resident, Clive Harrison, who visits the dam regularly, said better coverage would improve safety.
"What happens if there is some sort of emergency or someone needed to contact somebody," Mr Harrison said. "It would be good for safety."
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