By JOLENE OGLE
Good news is rolling in for residents of Peregian Beach and surrounds with works scheduled to start next year to connect about 20,000 homes in the Fairfax electorate to the NBN.
Noosa councillor Sandy Bolton said the NBN rollouts over the past months have been welcomed by both businesses and residents who have previously seen this technology as expensive and confusing.
“Access to fast speed broadband may well be the game-changer in relation to improving the local economy, and has been discussed across many sectors over the preceding years,” she said.
Sunshine Coast-based Senator James McGrath announced the NBN rollout and said about 11,600 homes in Peregian Beach, Marcus Beach, Coolum Beach, Mount Coolum, Peregian Springs, Point Arkwright, Yandina Creek and Yaroomba can expect to see connection work start in their suburbs in the second half of 2016.
“The NBN will deliver internet access that’s fast, reliable and affordable,” Senator McGrath said.
“Better broadband will transform the way homes and businesses communicate, do business and access online services.”
Cr Bolton said previous economic development plans of both the “old” Noosa Council and the Sunshine Coast Council have always set digital infrastructure as a priority to diversify the local economy with the “new” Noosa Council already supporting a range of initiatives including a proposed Digital Hub as part of the Peregian Beach Rufous Street project.
“To see this now becoming a reality is very exciting. Noosa is a much desired destination for digi-business and specialised services who wish to have the best of both worlds – the ability to work from a beautiful location with the ultimate lifestyle,” Cr Bolton said.
“The nickname Silicon Beach is a by-product of the businesses already flourishing in Noosa’s coastal villages, exporting services worldwide through superior broadband speed.
“Who would not want to walk out of their office straight into the surf or a fishing boat?“
NBN Co provides monthly updates on its website showing areas that have reached build preparation, build commencement and that are ready for service.
Residents can check their suburb at www.nbnco.com.au/rolloutplan.
