Federal MP Michael McCormack calls on residents to name Riverina’s mobile blackspots for new tower program

The federal government has re-opened the Mobile Black Spot Program’s Database of Reported Black Spot Locations for new nominations from state and local governments as well as federal MPs.

Mr McCormack said now is the time for residents to pinpoint locations in their area to help inform the rollout of the fourth round of the Government’s $220 million Mobile Black Spot Program.

Out of the program’s 867 locations across Australia, 20 blackspots have been targeted in the Riverina and Central West.

“Just this week a tower has been activated west of Temora,” Mr McCormack said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local communities to have their voices heard on any problematic mobile black spots and to encourage mobile network operators to invest in our region through the Program.”

Nominations will be open until October 11 and residents who want to add a location to the database should call one of Mr McCormack’s offices in Wagga Wagga on 6921 4600 or Parkes on 6862 4560.

The blackspot program will prioritise new towers that will being clear economic and social benefits or are near medical, educational, emergency services facilities or key transport routes.

The federal government's National Map of Mobile Blackspots shows 12 nominated blackspots with a 50-kilometre radius of Cootamundra.

The blackspot locations included Stockinbingal, Wallendbeen, Jugiong Road, and Muttama,

Telstra’s coverage map shows that its latest 4GX mobile internet service is available in Cootamundra.

However, Telstra advises customers to use an external antenna with their devices to access the much slower 3G mobile internet service across many areas outside Cootamundra.

Some of the patchiest areas on Telstra’s coverage map were at Culliga and north-west of Muttama and Bongalong.

According to Optus, customers using an Apple iPhone 6s receive ‘great’ coverage in Cootamundra but ‘marginal’ coverage across Jindalee national park, and in some areas south-east and south-west of Amaroo.