Expanded mobile connectivity for remote Western Australian surf beaches
Mobile coverage at 18 popular remote surf beaches across Western Australia is being expanded via funding of $1 million from the State Government’s Regional Telecommunications Project.
Mobile coverage upgrades will provide better coverage to support emergency responders as well as providing better coverage for regional communities and visitors.
The locations were chosen in consultation with Surfing WA, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's Shark Response Unit and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
The popular surf beaches are located along the Western Australian coastline from the Kimberley to the Great Southern region and have been selected as public safety risk areas with poor or no mobile coverage.
The funding has been provided as part of the Surf Beaches Mobile Coverage Grants Program, following the successful installation of a small cell mobile base station at Twilight Beach in Esperance in late 2020.
Western Australian Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan advises "the plan to provide coverage across these 18 identified beaches will vastly improve the ability to communicate in the case of an emergency.
"These popular beaches were lacking mobile coverage so as part of our commitment to improve connectivity across the State, we have provided the necessary funding through the Surf Beaches Mobile Coverage Grants Program.
"Spending time on our beaches and coastal waters is central to the lifestyle of many Western Australians - this investment helps make that time a little bit safer."
Applications are now open for service providers to develop proposals to install the equipment at each of the 18 sites.
The program will prioritise proposals that deliver the widest coverage through fit-for-purpose and innovative mobile technologies.
Submissions must be lodged by 5th December 2022 at 5pm (AWST).
Further details are available from the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website or by emailing agtech@dpird.wa.gov.au
Image: Exmouth Dunes Surf Beach
Related Articles
Published since 1997 - Australasian Leisure Management Magazine is your go-to resource for sports, recreation, and tourism. Enjoy exclusive insights, expert analysis, and the latest trends.
Mailed to you six times a year, for an annual subscription from just $99.
Get business and operations news for $12 a month - plus headlines emailed twice a week. Covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism, and venues.