Stirling Range phone tower upgrade after bushfire damage

Hikers in the Stirling Range National Park will have the reassurance of a better phone signal after the replacement of the area’s mobile tower this month.

The replacement is being installed after damage during previous bushfires.

Telstra regional general manager Boyd Brown said they were taking the opportunity to upgrade the infrastructure to include a 4G network service.

“This is a very popular tourist spot and as a consequence the site was dealing with increasing traffic and congestion issues,” he said.

“The introduction of a 4G network to this site will make a huge difference with data speeds and will also free up capacity on the 3G network.”

The work resulted in loss of signal in the area from April 12 to 21, but Mr Brown said the loss could extend until May 2 when work is expected to be completed.

“Those venturing into this area need to be mindful that there is reduced mobile coverage at this point of time and they need to plan accordingly,” he said.