QUEENSLAND CYCLONE YASI - NETWORK UPDATE 2PM

As of 2pm AEDT today, there has been localised impact to the Optus mobile and fixed network in the cyclone affected areas of Queensland.

The Optus mobile network is currently operational in Cairns, Townsville and other regional centres along the North Queensland coast. Network capacity in these areas has been prioritised for voice calls and SMS. The Optus mobile network has 87 base stations impacted and a number of base stations are running off back up batteries or generators due to loss of power.

The Optus Reef Network which provides transmission for voice and data services between Brisbane and Cairns is currently operational on back up batteries and generators due to loss of power. Optus' alternative redundancy transmission route to the area is unaffected.

Optus is working with Emergency Service organisations including The Australian Army and Police who are arranging access to restricted areas, allowing Optus engineers to connect generators and provide continuity of service to mobile infrastructure.

Optus network engineers are assessing any further impact to the Optus network along the coastline.

Yesterday, Optus moved a number of resources to North Queensland in preparation for our response. This includes utilising our Satellite infrastructure via a portable satellite base station as well as additional power generators and spare parts that can be used to restore any damaged infrastructure.

Optus customer service centres will provide additional assistance for our residential and small business customers. Fault and technical support is available 24/7.

For Optus Customer Care please contact 133 937
Small Business customers can contact 133 343.

Optus will provide regular updates to its customer via the media, its website and social network channels.
www.optus.com.au/cyclone
www.twitter.com/optus
www.facebook.com/optus

Media contacts:
Simone Bergholcs/ Josh Drayton
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 80827850