An internet service provider has logged on to the Upper Lachlan in a bid to improve web connectivity.
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Periphery NET founder and strategic architect Martin Welsby has sent a proposal to Telstra detailing a plan to improve communication services in Grabben Gullen and the area. Mr Welsby acted after attending the recent Grabben Gullen meeting on internet connectivity.
With support from Telstra, Periphery NET could use “microPoPs”, an additional antenna for internet users to access the Periphery network. MicroPoPs can cover a 10 kilometre radius and take about 10 concurrent subscribers. “NanoPoP” technology – which covers one to five kilometres – was also flagged to overcome rural blackspots. MicroPoPs (under $5000) and nanoPoPs (under $1000) could be installed relatively easily if there was co-operation between Telstra and Periphery NET.
The upgrades would boost Telstra 3G, 4G and 4GX (cellular) services, plus Periphery 2.4GHz and 5GHz fixed wireless broadband.
Mr Welsby, who presented his proposal to Telstra representatives last week, said he was still waiting on a response. He told the Gazette if Telstra did not support his proposal, an alternate solution could be pursued.
Because Periphery NET has a reserved location on Mt Gray, a connection could also be established between Goulburn and an area near a defunct mobile tower in Grabben Gullen. The reserved location on Mt Gray “can deliver the required backhaul connectivity should Telstra not engage,” Mr Welsby said.
The Crookwell tower, which has fibre connectivity, could also be used to mount the necessary antenna, delivering fast, stable, fixed wireless broadband, Mr Welsby said. This would also have carry-on benefits to those using the internet in Crookwell.
The defunct mobile tower in Grabben Gullen, which was the focus of the recent community meeting, could be brought online “easily and cost effectively”.
“Such a facility was originally a significant investment, and reuse of the tower is logical, maximises its value and benefits the Grabben Gullen community,” Mr Welsby’s proposal read. “A project to improve communication services to Grabben Gullen district will demonstrate Telstra’s capacity to provision better outcomes for rural communities.”
The proposal concluded that microPoPs would be equivalent or better than the NBN satellite. Mr Welsby has shared the report with the Upper Lachlan and Goulburn Mulwaree councils.
