Minute with the Mayor - Mayor Ramon Jayo

Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting with NBN Co’s Chairman of the Board, Kevin Russell, and Director, Jules Scarlett, who were visiting Ingham to inspect progress on Fibre to the Premises works.

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We spoke about the trauma experienced by residents during the 2025 floods, particularly the inability of residents to communicate or receive information via the internet once systems shut down due to the loss of mains power, and the importance of resilient and reliable communications, particularly in the lead-up to and following the many natural disasters our region faces.

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I was pleased to hear that upgrades have been occurring to the main transmission towers located throughout our district, including improved battery backup installations and remote-start generator capability to better cater for losses of mains power into the future. This work enhances and complements the strategic arrangements NBN has put in place with Council for the pre-deployment of smaller generation equipment and refuelling arrangements for the smaller towers located in various areas throughout the district, such as Forrest Beach and Taylors Beach.

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These matters were identified and determined as critical during Council’s meetings with NBN immediately following last year’s event, and we are very pleased that NBN has listened to and acted on our district’s concerns.

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As many would have noticed, NBN technicians have been busy throughout Ingham, installing fibre in many streets, homes and businesses as part of the Fibre to the Premises program. This program aims to eliminate the need for communication nodes in streets that have previously been susceptible to failure due to floodwater infiltration, making the new full-fibre connection faster and more reliable.

I urge residents and businesses not to wait until a cyclone or flood is on the horizon. Check your address now and, if eligible, speak with your preferred phone or internet provider about ordering an upgrade to full fibre. NBN technicians will complete all installation works at no cost to you outside your premises and also inside, provided your internal systems are within 12 metres of the external connection box.

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We know from experience that reliable connectivity is essential before, during and after severe weather. It helps you receive emergency warnings, access important information and services, check on family and friends, and keep local businesses operating.

Preparing early gives you the best chance to stay informed and connected when conditions deteriorate. A fibre upgrade is one practical step eligible residents can take now to strengthen their digital readiness ahead of the wet season.

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To check whether your address is eligible, visit www.nbnco.com.au/checkregional.

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