Optus announced today a further enhancement to its network coverage in NSW with the installation of a new mobile facility at Medowie South in the Port Stephens region of NSW.

The facility will enhance Optus GSM network coverage in the Lower Hunter region including Medowie, Richardson Road and the Pacific Dunes Golf Resort. The expansion of coverage facilities provides local residents with a real alternative to other carriers and allows current Optus customers to use their mobile phones in more places in the region.

Warren Hardy, Acting Managing Director Optus Consumer said, "The new site is part of Optus' strategy to expand our network on the east coast of Australia, providing the highest quality of GSM coverage.

"In the past five years, Optus has invested more than $2 million in the Port Stephens region, enhancing coverage at Anna Bay, Tomago and Salt Ash, to name a few. The increased coverage will allow local residents and rural businesses to communicate more effectively, making it easier to talk while on the go," Mr Hardy said.

Andrew Dunreath-Cooper, Optus' Small-to-Medium Business representative in the area said, "The new mobile facility at Medowie South, together with new sites at Soldiers Point and Mallabula, has dramatically improved network coverage and performance for Optus business customers in the region. With a planned site upgrade to Williamtown Airport and a new site at Bobs Farm, local businesses will benefit further from efficient and reliable mobile coverage. It's simple - if you demand great coverage in the area, then Optus is the network you need to rely on."

Optus has invested more than $536 million to roll out 1,534 mobile base stations across New South Wales, providing network coverage to 97 percent of the state's population.

Media contact:
Cindy Beukes
Optus Corporate Affairs
Phone: +61 2 9342 8138