Federal member Barnaby Joyce announced this week a new mobile phone base station was now active at Invergowrie, which meant local residents would have better mobile phone coverage.

The new tower was built under the Australian Government’s $385 million Mobile Black Spot Program, which is rolling out nearly 500 new, or improved, base stations across the nation.

Mr Joyce said the tower was one of 28 new base stations being delivered in his electorate. “Mobile coverage is vital to the people of New England, who are increasingly reliant on mobile coverage to conduct business, manage farms and keep in touch,” He said.

“This tower will provide high-speed 4G mobile data and voice services in and around Invergowrie and is an important step forward for the region.”

Vodafone chief  technology officer Benoit Hanssen said the site will deliver 108 square kilometres of new handheld coverage to more than 400 homes, as well as additional coverage of Armidale Airport.

“The new site will also provide continuous coverage between Invergowrie and Armidale,” Mr Hanssen said. “This means people travelling between Invergowrie and Armidale, via Bundarra Road, will receive reliable service on the Vodafone network.

“Coverage from this site will also reach Saumarez Ponds and Arding, down towards the New England Highway.”