The official launch and ribbon cut today of a Community Hub in Batemans Bay by Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, ably assisted by the Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher (below), will hopefully bring support to residents and businesses in the region as they recover from the devastating bushfires.
The hub is intended to act as a regional ‘Discovery Centre’ where people can learn more about the nbn network and learn more of how the wholesale broadband network can play a role in recovery from the fires.
The intention of the hub is to be a place for business people and entrepreneurs to meet, collaborate and help grow the local economy. Community members will also be able to visit for face to face help and ‘try out’ nbn technology and visualise how a connected home or business looks.
In opening the hub it was announced that the facility will also be available for the residents of Batemans Bay and surrounds to gather and use as a telecommunication point in future emergencies.
Staffed by two Community Ambassadors who live in the region it is hoped that their local knowledge will help nbn better understand and support locals now, and in the future. As part of a $700 million initiative to support Australian businesses, NBN Co has also established a Business Fibre Zone in Batemans Bay.
The Community Hub is located at 3 Clyde Street Batemans Bay NSW 2536 and is open on weekdays between 9.30AM and 5PM.
NBN Co Chief Development Officer, Regional and Remote, Gavin Williams, said:
“The nbn is the digital backbone of the nation, which is why we’re investing in network infrastructure in regional and remote areas, including Batemans Bay and the South Coast more broadly, to help create a stronger, more vibrant and inclusive way of life.
“Last summer’s bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic have caused significant disruption and dislocation, but access to a fast and reliable wholesale broadband network can be the great enabler to aid and accelerate the economic recovery of regional and remote communities like this one.
“The Community Hub is just one way we can give back as it will help to lift the region’s digital capability and empower locals to participate in the digital economy, engage in lifelong learning and gain access to the full range of online community, government and healthcare services, stream entertainment content on demand and stay connected to friends and family.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming community organisations to the hub and empowering locals to realise the social and economic benefits of access to services via the nbn network.”
Addressing the media today at the opening of the Hub the Federal member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips said "While I welcome the opening of the NBN Co Community Hub in Batemans Bay today, I want to be clear. I call on the Minister to fix our many mobile phone black spots, fix our NBN reliability issues, bushfire proof our telecommunications and power infrastructure, and support our local regional media. We need this now."
VIDEO: Federal member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips
