OPTUS CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN NETWORK COVERAGE IN REGIONAL QUEENSLAND

Optus today announced an extension of its mobile coverage in regional Queensland with the installation of a mobile site in the township of Theodore, extending GSM coverage north and south along the Leichardt Highway.

Allen Lew, Managing Director Optus Mobile said, "Optus is continuing to boost network coverage in regional Queensland and throughout Australia to deliver an enhanced network and greater service to all Optus mobile customers.

"Optus' installation of a new mobile site in Theodore is part of Optus' commitment and confidence that GSM mobile technology is the best one to meet the needs of the people in regional Australia.

"Optus is at the forefront of delivering an extensive network for regional communities, with plans to build the largest GSM network on the East coast covering the States of Queensland, NSW and Victoria by July 2005," Mr Lew said.

Mark Williamson, Optus General Manager, Queensland said, "The residents of Theodore, along with travellers and business people, are now able to benefit from the extended GSM mobile coverage and the increased competition in mobile services.

"Optus has also invested 100 percent of its own money to develop new mobile facilities in Binjour, Mount Benn and Monto. Optus is continuing to strengthen regional Queensland with further plans to expand its network into a number of areas including the Mundubbera and Moura Townships, Taroom and Wandoan," he said.

For further information on Optus visit: www.optus.com.au

Media contact:
Tracy Monkman
Optus Corporate Affairs
Phone: +61 2 9342 5302