A reliable data communications link across the Murrumbidgee Council area is starting to take shape, after a 50-metre telecommunications tower was lifted into place last week.
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The Bundure Tower, located halfway between Coleambally and Jerilderie was erected on Tuesday, July 11 and marks the physical start of construction of a microwave Wide Area Network (WAN).
Council awarded the contract to build the data network between the towns of Jerilderie, Coleambally and Darlington Point to ATI Australia Pty Ltd in February.
The contract was to design, supply, build and install a data communications link between the three branch offices.
The project is a major task for the new Council, which says the tower marks a significant step forward in providing improved connectivity and enhancement of its new computer network.
Administrator Austin Evans said when fully complete, the new communications link will provide a unified corporate data network.
It’s hoped the completed project will support the use of information management systems and software across the whole Council area.
Perhaps most exciting is the potential to attract a carrier to improve mobile coverage in the area, helping eliminate a notorious black spot.
“This is something Council is working on achieving,” Mr Evans said.
“Council operates from three different locations across the area so a reliable communication network is essential.
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“Establishing the data communications link is a significant milestone ...”
“This new link between the towns will provide staff access to a wide range of technical systems, applications and information required to provide consistent level of service to the community from any of Council’s locations.”
The project, including the new infrastructure has been funded from the $5 million made available to Council by the NSW Government for merger costs.
In collaboration with Council the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has agreed to co-fund work to strengthen an existing tower at Coleambally.
They will contribute $60,000 towards the project, which will enable enhanced communication between their offices.
Additional equipment will also be added to an existing RFS tower at Jerilderie and a monopole will also be constructed in Darlington Point.