THE Communications Forum in Wauchope on October 8, attracted residents from Bonny Hills, Rawdon Island and Mt Seaview as well as representatives from NSW Fire and Rescue, Chamber of Commerce reps from Wauchope and Camden Haven and the Australian Workers Union.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Locals told of their experience with the mobile phone network.
In particular it was noted that the issue of mobile phone Black Spots was jeopardising the local tourism industry.
Ralph Clissold from Mt Seaview Resort told of the impact poor mobile phone coverage was having on business.
"For five years we have been trying to get simple mobile service for the upper Hastings area," said Mr Clissold.
"On average we have lost 50% of conference opportunities because people who are coming to stay expect to have decent reception".
"We feel that the Upper Hastings Valley has been a forgotten part of Australia".
Veronica Richards from Bonny Hills doesn't get coverage in her home and her internet speed is frequently slow.
"I want to get a smart phone but I wouldn't while I can't get any coverage," she said.
"My friends say they have sent me messages and three days later I will be in town and all these messages will come through".
Other resident spoke of black spots on the Pacific Highway, Lake Cathie, Camden Haven and Kendall and a representative from NSW Fire and Rescue highlighted the safety issues of having poor or non-existent radio and mobile phone coverage.
"We are one of Australia's fastest growing areas and the mobile phone coverage is very ordinary," said NSW Fire and Rescue Zone Commander David Gray.
"A lot of our responses to situations and hazard material spills occur on the highway and out in remote areas and not having radio or mobile connectivity leaves us and the community at risk".
