Introduction
A recent article from Nine’s A Current Affair sheds light on the mobile signal challenges faced by some towns.
Residents in Lansdowne, located on the mid-north coast of NSW, are particularly affected, often experiencing intermittent signal issues throughout the day. While they might find connectivity in certain spots on their properties or on verandas, there are times when they cannot connect at all.
We used the National Coverage Model to take a closer look at the terrain and the mobile tower servicing the area reveals a significant hill that effectively blocks the signal, dividing the town’s coverage. The mobile signal’s reach can fluctuate based on user density, weather conditions, and the time of day, leading to reduced coverage during peak usage periods, which further complicates access for those further away from the tower.
Lansdowne relies on a Telstra and Optus tower located on top of Vincents Lookout, about 4 km from the town centre. The primary reason for the poor signal is a large 250m high mountain range that lies between the tower and the town, which prevents many residents from accessing a reliable connection. Entering this “dark zone” can lead to a drastic drop in signal strength, going from three bars to just one, with connectivity that often drops in and out.
While Optus also offers mobile coverage in the town centre, both Telstra and Optus signals struggle behind the mountain range. Even if the signal is blasted from the tower, the mountain would still obstruct it for those living on the other side resulting in low signal from reflected signal.
What potential solutions exist for this issue?
New Mobile Phone Tower
For residents cut off from reliable service, a second cell tower closer to town would be essential to provide coverage for those behind the hill. However, the cost of installing such infrastructure can be quite high, and operators must weigh the expenses against potential returns. One possible avenue for funding is the government’s Mobile Black Spot Program.
Unfortunately, a search of the Black Spot National Map reveals that Lansdowne is not included in any of the current funding rounds. There are other regional connectivity programs that the government is supporting, and with increased attention on this issue, we hope the area of Lansdowne will be reconsidered for coverage improvements.
Try Other Mobile Providers
Trying both Optus and Telstra at your location is highly recommended to find which one has the most consistent usable voice and internet.
Mobile Repeaters
The most effective way to boost Telstra or Optus mobile coverage in Lansdowne is by using a Cel-Fi GO repeater. An antenna is mounted on your roof, just like a TV aerial, and a cable runs indoors to the repeater unit. They’re a quick and simple way to turn even a very weak signal into a full strength signal.
Lansdowne is particularly well suited for the Powertec LPDA Repeater Kit , which our local partner in Taree, Active Antenna Service, can help you get sorted.
For locations where you can’t find a signal on the ground, you’ll often be surprised at how much this can change with a few metres of extra height. When signal is obstructed by large terrain features like mountains, we rely on an interesting physics principle called ‘diffraction’, which results in the bending of signals over terrain. Even when there’s no signal at ground level, having a competent person climb on to the roof with their phone is a great way to check for improved signal. Even a flickering signal can become a lot stronger when using a powerful antenna like the Powertec LPDA. For best results in these kinds of tough areas, a local experts like Active Antenna Service or Fetell Communications can be an enormous help, with the added benefit of supporting a local business.
Starlink
Starlink is a satellite service run by US billionaire Elon Musk. It can provide fast internet connectivity anywhere with an unobstructed view of most of the sky. Many modern phones support WiFi calling which will allow you to make phone calls over the Starlink connection. While the range of WiFi is shorter than phone signal boosted from a Cel-Fi, Powertec’s extensive installer network can help extend WiFi around the property with our long range and mesh WiFi technologies. We can help find a local partner to assist with that too.
Upgrading your Phone
If you phone is getting old its ability to receive signal may also suffer and upgrading to a Telstra Blue Tick approved phone may help.
Government Grants
Keep an eye out for government grants for purchasing the above equipment and the installation costs. Currently a rebate of up to $30,000 is available for primary producers that qualify under the On Farm Connectivity Program
