TELSTRA has released a series of maps detailing extensive ocean coverage of its 3G network around the country. The extended coverage enables more people to receive mobile phone coverage and Internet access across Bass Strait and at popular Tasmanian fishing spots like the Great Lake and Coles Bay. Telstra Northern Tasmania general manager Michael Patterson said the increased coverage had been enabled by the erection of more than 30 new base stations and software technology available to 3G that allowed the signal to be spread a further 200km out to sea. "We also have technology on the Spirit of Tasmania that has helped us extend our coverage across Bass Strait," Mr Patterson said. Avid fisherman and Boat Shack owner Harry Murfet said mobile phone coverage for boaters, recreational and commercial fishermen had improved out of sight in recent years, especially around the lakes. "It's good to see. If you go back a few years there was no coverage at all up there, so this is really good," he said. Marine and Safety Tasmania manager of recreation and boating Peter Hopkins said while the increased mobile phone coverage had advantages, mobile phones should not be used instead of VHF radios and certainly not relied on in an emergency. "Mobile phones are good to add to what's there. If your boat battery goes flat and you can't use the VHF radio then a mobile phone with coverage would be good," he said. As technology improved and mobile phones with Internet capability became more popular Mr Hopkins said it could increase boating safety by allowing access to weather forecasts up to seven days in advance. "That's very handy to have if you're trying to plan a trip or crossing of Bass Strait on the move," he said. Mr Hopkins recently completed a trip from Hobart to Sydney and was amazed by the coverage. "I was able to keep up with my work, check emails, that sort of thing," he said. Mr Patterson said Telstra had worked "hand in glove" with industries such as the rock lobster fishing industry to meet their needs and would continue to work with stakeholders to improve and develop mobile phone coverage. "We invest about $3 million a week and are still working on a few areas where coverage issues have been identified. Penguin only has about a month to go and in June we begin construction on new base stations at Scamander(from the advocate.com.au)
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