Key Takeaways
- A suspected copper theft incident has caused a telecommunications outage in several north Queensland suburbs, leaving thousands of residents without mobile and internet services.
- The outage has occurred during a tropical cyclone warning, with Tropical Cyclone Koji expected to make landfall on Sunday.
- Telstra and Optus have confirmed that the outages were caused by vandalism, with fibre cables cut at a mobile site.
- Technicians are working to restore services as quickly as possible, with some areas already having their services reinstated.
- The incident has been condemned by local authorities, with Premier David Crisafulli describing it as a "low act" that puts lives at risk.
Introduction to the Incident
Thousands of north Queensland residents are facing a telecommunications outage after suspected copper thieves cut fibre cables at a mobile site. The affected suburbs include Mt Low, Bluewater, Black River, Toolakea, and Saunders Beach. The outage has occurred during a tropical cyclone warning, with Tropical Cyclone Koji expected to make landfall on Sunday. This has left residents without access to critical information and updates on the cyclone’s progress.
Impact on Residents
The outage has had a significant impact on residents, particularly those who rely on the internet for critical information and updates. Townsville residents Bill and Kylie Poulsen, who have been impacted by the outage, expressed their frustration and disappointment. Ms Poulsen stated that having access to updates on social media was important, especially during severe weather events. The couple has been preparing for the potential cyclone, but the lack of communication has made it difficult for them to stay informed.
Response from Telecommunications Providers
Telstra and Optus have confirmed that the outages were caused by vandalism, with fibre cables cut at a mobile site. Telstra regional general manager Rachel Cliffe stated that crews were working to bring services back online and that any calls to Triple Zero (000) would automatically divert to any available mobile network. Optus said in a statement that the outages were caused by "an act of vandalism, which resulted in a significant break" at the Mt Low mobile site. Technicians are working to restore services as quickly as possible, with some areas already having their services reinstated.
Condemnation from Local Authorities
The incident has been condemned by local authorities, with Premier David Crisafulli describing it as a "low act" that puts lives at risk. Mr Crisafulli stated that telecommunications were critically important during natural disasters and that the individual responsible for the vandalism would face severe consequences. Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto also condemned the incident, stating that it was "the most un-Australian kind of thing that could happen." Cr Dametto urged all Townsville residents to prepare for the severe weather expected in coming days and to go back to their cyclone kits and emergency kits.
Ongoing Efforts to Restore Services
Technicians are continuing to work to restore services as quickly as possible. Telstra has confirmed that mobile services are now back online in Mt Low, Bluewater, Black River, and Saunders Beach after technicians removed over 7 kilometres of damaged fibre by hand in two locations. The company is still working to restore remaining services, with crews facing tough weather conditions. The incident highlights the importance of telecommunications during natural disasters and the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions.
Preparations for Tropical Cyclone Koji
Tropical Cyclone Koji is expected to make landfall on Sunday, and residents are being urged to prepare for the severe weather expected in coming days. The Bureau of Meteorology has declared a tropical cyclone warning for the area, and residents are advised to take shelter and follow the instructions of local authorities. The incident has highlighted the importance of having access to critical information and updates during severe weather events, and residents are being urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
