Optus is revving up its mobile coverage for the Clipsal 500 V8 SuperCar series in March.

Optus is setting up a Cell on Wheels (CoW) to provide increased coverage to support V8 fans using its mobile network while attending the racing event.

Darren Rogers, Manager, Optus Network Strategy, said "Optus is 'raising the bar' to support the popular annual V8 SuperCar series by providing temporary equipment during these events to ensure mobile users enjoy quality network coverage.

"The Clipsal 500 has been awarded the AVESCO 'Promoter of the Year' award for four consecutive years - and Optus has been supporting the event and motor sport enthusiasts since the beginning of the series. And this year Optus is the sponsor of the GT performance category at the event," he said.

In addition, Optus customers attending the event will receive special event cell broadcasts displayed on their mobile phones such as V8sRock SA, FordvHolden and V8s Shake SA.

"Optus is fast tracking its regional mobile network roll-out. Customers can use their mobile phones in more places in South Australia than ever before with 14 new or improved mobile base station builds completed in 2002 and more planned for this year," Mr Rogers said.

Other areas to benefit from enhanced Optus mobile coverage during the V8 series events include Barbegello, Winton, Bathurst and the Indy 300 event.

With more than four million mobile customers, a third of the nation's mobile users are on the Optus mobile network.

For further information about Optus' mobile coverage visit www.optus.com.au

For more information:
Joni Gathercole
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 7850