NEW CHANNELS FOR OPTUS TELEVISION

Cable & Wireless Optus today announced three new channels would be added to Optus Television's line up - National Geographic, Adventure One and BBC World.

Adrian Chamberlain, Managing Director, Consumer and Multimedia, said securing the channels is another significant win for Optus Television.

"The addition of these new channels together with our new Rugby League Channel announced three weeks ago adds to the variety, diversity and appeal of Optus Television," Mr Chamberlain said.

"From the inception of pay TV, National Geographic and BBC World were only seen on Foxtel in metropolitan areas.

"This is a further step towards the rationalisation of the industry, ensuring that customers can choose a pay TV platform that suits them without missing out on specific channels," he said

The new channels add a range of programs covering information, education and entertainment.

BBC World is the BBC's 24 hour international news and information channel providing high quality news, business, weather and sport 24 hours a day, plus the best of the BBC's current affairs, documentary and lifestyle programming.

The National Geographic Channel is synonymous with exploration, adventure and discovery. For adults and families with curiosity for the world around them, National Geographic is the ultimate transport to the world of experience.

Adventure One is a brand new channel from the makers of National Geographic. The channel is brimming with inspiring adventure, exploration and heart pounding excitement.

National Geographic and BBC World will be seen on Optus Television from April 1 and Adventure One will launch on May 1.

Optus Television already includes the big brand names - Disney Channel, MTV and ESPN; plus movie channels with exclusive product from Warners Brothers, Disney, MGM, Village Roadshow and Dreamworks. It also includes Australia's only arts and entertainment channel, Ovation and general entertainment channel Oh! which contains a variety of programming from Friends, ER and The Sopranos to Seachange and The Crocodile Hunter.

"Our aim is to make Optus the provider of choice for information, communication and entertainment services for the Australian home. Today's announcement shows we are serious about achieving that aim," said Mr Chamberlain.

Optus Television is part of the Optus Choices packages which allow customers to bundle telephony, TV and internet services.

For more information:
Melissa Favero
Cable & Wireless Optus
Tel: 02 9342 5030