OPTUS IMPROVES NETWORK COVERAGE IN MACKAY

Optus today announced a further enhancement to its network coverage in Queensland with the installation of two new mobile facilities west of Mackay. The facilities enhance the Optus GSM network coverage west of Mackay towards Eungella and at Miltons Lookout. The expansion of coverage provides local residents with a real alternative to other carriers and allows current Optus Mobile customers to use their mobile phones in more places in the Mackay region of Queensland. Allen Lew, Managing Director Optus Consumer said, "The new sites are part of Optus' strategy to expand our network in regional Australia, providing the highest quality of GSM coverage. Our commitment can be seen in the $33 million we've invested in 90 new sites across Queensland over the last two years. "The new facilities at Mackay west and Miltons Lookout, along with plans to expand coverage to Hay Point, can only benefit the growth of local business and tourism in the area," he said. Mark Williamson, Optus' Queensland State Manager, said, "With the new mobile facilities at Mackay west and Miltons Lookout, and the recent site at Sarina South West, residents and businesses in the Mackay region are enjoying a marked increase in mobile coverage and capacity." Optus has invested more than $247 million to roll out 706 mobile base stations across Queensland providing network coverage to 96 percent of the state's population. For further information on Optus visit: www.optus.com.au Media contact: Cindy Beukes Optus Corporate Affairs Phone: +61 2 9342 8138