Three new mobile towers will be built at Deep lead Road, Horsham West and Horsham CBD in the next 12 to 18 months. 

Optus state manager Peter Kirk said the telecommunications company was committed to improving mobile coverage for consumers and businesses in the Grampians, as well as commuters and tourists travelling along the popular Henty and Western Highways.

“We are seeing a growing demand for mobile services, which is why Optus is continuously investing to improve mobile coverage across Australia,” he said. 

“This investment aims to deliver improved indoor and outdoor coverage, faster data download and upload speeds and fewer call drop outs.”

Mr Kirk said three new sites built at Longerenong, Wilaura and Moyston in the last 12 months had improved mobile coverage for residents, businesses and visitors. 

“We also expanded and upgraded our 4G network in Nhill, Natimuk, Jeparit and Speed,” he said.

Stawell resident Steve Fielding used the Optus network and said the mobile tower at Big Hill was “haphazard”.

He said he would welcome more infrastructure in the community to improve mobile coverage.

“Upgrading to 4G is part and parcel of technology being implemented these days,” he said. 

“Anything that improves the viability and reception in this area is great and it is good to see this investment in the community because typically regional areas get left out.” 

The announcement formed part of Optus’ $1 billion commitment to improve mobile services where people lived, worked and traveled.