Telecommunications Forums to Help with Tech Issues Across the Region
Published on 19 September 2024
forums across the region, with Telstra, the Regional Tech Hub, and NBN participating. These forums, set for early October, are a direct result of Council's recent Regional Telecommunications Review submission and ongoing conversations with telecommunications providers.
Event Details:
Wednesday, 2nd October
- Inglewood Civic Centre – 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Yelarbon Hall – 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm (Drop-in session)
- Goondiwindi Library – 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursday, 3rd October
- Goondiwindi Cinema – 9:00 am – 11:00 am
- Texas Memorial Hall – 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Councillor Susie Kelly, the Technology portfolio holder, highlighted the significance of these forums for the community. "We are very grateful that Telstra, NBN, and the Regional Tech Hub have jumped on board to address the concerns raised by our residents. This is a valuable opportunity for our community to have their telecommunications issues resolved directly by the experts without the hassle of calling helplines. This is the first time these connectivity providers have held such a forum with the Regional Tech Hub so we are very fortunate to have such an opportunity in our region” she said.
The Goondiwindi, Inglewood and Texas forums will feature a short presentation followed by a Q&A session while the format in Yelarbon will differ in that it will offer a one hour drop-in session. Residents are encouraged to bring their devices or specific issues to receive practical, on-the-spot support.
Cr Kelly appreciates those who contacted her and contributed to her research for the Regional Telecommunications Review submission she recently wrote on behalf of Council and the Goondiwindi Region, a copy of which can be viewed here: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/community-consultation
“The extent of issues and the level of frustration with phone and internet issues has markedly increased since my involvement in Council’s last submission, four years ago. Some problems can, however, be resolved and I expect the forums to provide some useful insights for local people” Cr Kelly said.
The Mayor’s recent tour through part of the region with a Telstra representative identified and addressed several telecommunications challenges. “Council has developed a strong working relationship with Telstra, and we’ve already seen positive outcomes, including resolving issues in Goondiwindi following the network changes in preparation for the transition from 3G to 4G mobile networks.”
It’s worth noting that some issues identified during the recent Telstra visit were not due to network faults but were related to technology settings or incorrect infrastructure and this highlights how terrific an opportunity this is for locals to highlight concerns. In some cases, long identified problems were easily fixed. The visiting specialists are keen to help residents navigate these challenges and ensure their technology is functioning at its best,” Cr Kelly said.
The Regional Tech Hub, funded by the Federal Government and managed by the National Farmers Federation, will also be on hand to provide independent advice and support. More information about their services can be found on their website.
“Many people may not know of the Regional Tech Hub. Their specialists help people understand connectivity options. The technology itself and the jargon can be complex and overly confusing, and the Regional Tech Hub provides free and independent, practical, straightforward advice tailored to specific needs by those who can explain it in layman’s terms” she said.
“These forums are designed to be practical and beneficial for everyone,” Cr Kelly added. “This is our community’s chance to sort out any problems directly with those who can help. I encourage everyone experiencing difficulties to take advantage of this opportunity.”