Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington says persistence has paid off with essential communications technology to finally be improved for emergency services in Booubyjan in the central Burnett.
Deb said she has been advocating for an analog repeater to be installed at the Mount Marcella communications tower at Booubyjan for two and a half years since the devastating floods of January 2022.
“There’s no doubt the analog repeater should have been installed sooner than this, however, it is welcome news that finally our emergency services will have access to better communications when they are in the Booubyjan area,” Deb said.
“The Booubyjan district was heavily impacted by the flooding events 2022 and emergency crews were severely hampered by lack of access to communications technology while they were working in the area as there is no mobile reception.
“The Burnett Highway also runs through this district, and unfortunately emergency services are frequently called to this stretch of road due to the high number of road accidents which often involve fatalities.
“The Labor Government tried dismiss the need, saying the WAVE PTX system used by the firies would be sufficient, however, the WAVE booster system cannot boost mobile reception when there isn’t any in the first place.
“With no mobile reception, emergency crews have been at a severe disadvantage when trying to carry out their duties.
“On behalf of the crew at the Goomeri Fire and Rescue Station I have been asking for this technology to be installed.
“The Repeater will extend emergency communications in a wide range from Gayndah to Goomeri and should be in place by the end of 2024.
“I am so pleased to have achieved this emergency communications technology for the Booubyjan community and our hard-working emergency services teams,” Deb said.
Photo: Following the floods of 2022, Deb visited properties across Booubyjan and Tansey. There is no doubt the installation of an analog repeater at Mount Marcella will improve emergency communication technology and help local landholders during times of disaster.
