Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News
East Gippsland to get emergency WiFi to boost portable telecommunication capabilities during emergencies
People living in some disaster-prone locations in our shire are now able to access more reliable communication technology during emergencies.
Partnering with East Gippsland Shire and communities, NBN installed disaster satellite services to supply a NBN connection that can be utilised during emergencies. This connection bridges an important gap where land-based communications networks become unavailable due to power outages or damage to infrastructure.
The Commonwealth government's 'STAND' program will emphasise the importance of having a communications plan in place for emergency situations
Working with remote communities
The Australian Communications and Media Authority found most network outages during the 2019-20 bushfires were caused by power outages. The $7 million project was funded by phase two of the Commonwealth government's Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) program.
Mayor Cr Mark Reeves said council worked closely with remote communities and connected more than 40 sites across the shire. "The new infrastructure has already been used. Bemm River lost power, traditional telecommunications services, and road access due to storms and flooding."
"Bemm River residents switched on the satellite unit and were able to hold online meetings with emergency services and council to request medical attention and emergency relief to affected people," Cr Reeves said.
Enabling communications
The back-up satellite technology also provides free WiFi, which means people are able to contact family and friends throughout an incident. The infrastructure upgrades may eventually be supported by generators or electric battery storage units in some communities, which allows people to charge mobile phones and other devices during incidences of extended power outages.
STAND technology has been installed in 46 East Gippsland Shire communities. Cr Reeves said these solutions deliver reliable connectivity during an emergency that enables emergency agencies to:
- Communicate with each other
- Share information
- Stay up-to-date with the latest weather conditions and modelling
They are also important pieces in a vital digital lifeline for communities in their time of need. For more information on the STAND system please contact the council's emergency management team.
Pictures from Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Community feedback wanted for the Wellington Shire Draft Budget 2024/25 by 29 May 2024
Appreciation to Bairnsdale volunteers for their support during Gippsland Rotary Centenary House fundraiser extended by Darren Chester
Baw Baw residents will get new purple-lidded glass bins collected separately every four weeks to better recycling process from October 2024
Exhibition by artist Matthew Bagley is captivating journey into ocean conservation at Berninneit Art Gallery
Outward Bound Australia praised by Darren Chester for their effort to revitalise Gippsland outdoor education
Penny Glover from Guthridge Primary School presented with John Printz OAM Award in front of a huge crowd at Sale Memorial Hall
Upgrades to Kalimna Hill trail in Lakes Entrance prioritises safety and accessibility for walker
Baw Baw Shire Council funds 28 community groups total of $105,303 from Community Grants Program
Free Masterclass sessions to promote safe and sustainable community events in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale over May 2024