Gemfields residents advised to switch to VAST network before the end of 2024

Despite an upgrade of television towers in the Gemfields in 2023 at a significant cost– council has been advised by specialists that a lack of repeater bases, weather events and interference from newly built structures are preventing consistent signals from reaching residents.

In 2011, council opted into the VAST (viewer access satellite television) service in the knowledge that the current towers would remain serviceable for a further 10 years with an understanding that after this time, residents would access the VAST system at their own cost.  Council have been advised that a large number of Gemfields residents have already made the switch to alternative systems, which has improved their reception.

‘Recent failure to deliver reliable television services, despite costly upgrades has contributed to the decision to decommission the towers, located in Anakie, Willows and Sapphire. Council hopes that the advance notice of the upcoming decommissioning of the towers, provides all residents with adequate time to arrange access to the VAST network,’ said General Manager Communities John McDougall.

‘Council have considered advice from telecommunication specialists who have confirmed that all repair avenues have been exhausted and have determined that the cost to repair and upgrade the only set of council-maintained towers are un-economical for ratepayers,’ he said.

VAST is easy to install at low cost, through local suppliers, and many Gemfields residents are already using this system and reporting immediate improvements.

‘Council is advising any residents who are not yet connected to the VAST system, to initiate this process as soon as practicable,’ Mr McDougall continued.

Council will continue to update community on the progress of the decommissioning of the towers, throughout the span of the project.

If you have any enquiries, please contact council on 1300 242 686.