Residents who were cut off from the outside world during last October’s devastating bushfire near Lancefield are demanding major improvements to mobile phone coverage in the area.
People in Benloch and surrounding towns are among those who have supported McEwen Labor MP Rob Mitchell’s campaign for up to 30 projects to be funded under the second round of the federal government’s mobile phone black-spot program.
Darren Burns, who runs Benloch’s Weekaway holiday camp, said poor coverage was a major safety risk.
‘‘Mobile and internet coverage up here is almost non-existent,’’ Mr Burns said. ‘‘We’ve got wireless on a 30-foot pole to try and get anything, but if the wind blows the wrong way it’s out for three days. We have to do better.’’
As reported by Star Weekly, the electorate was mostly ignored in last year’s first round, with one new tower funded and another reinstated.
During October’s fire, many residents complained about poor or non-existent mobile and internet coverage, with many unable to access the CFA’s FireReady app or not receiving text alerts until days afterwards.
Under the federal scheme, areas are given high priority if they are susceptible to disasters, are small communities or are near significant transport corridors.
Mr Mitchell said that with the Calder Freeway close by, the area fulfilled all three criteria.
‘‘McEwen is riddled with mobile black spots, creating risks – particularly on high-fire-danger days when authorities, families and local communities rely most on mobile phones,’’ he said.
‘‘It’s no secret McEwen has faced five major fires the past six summers, including Black Saturday, the Mickleham-Kilmore fire and the recent Lancefield fire.
‘‘Townships and communities are counting on round two being conducted solely on need.’’
Successful submissions will be announced later this year.
