Improvements to mobile phone blackspots along Picton Road could help avoid the repeat of a 2015 tragedy.
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In September that year, a head-on collision on Picton Road claimed the life of Hayette Hanna’s sister.
Ms Hanna was a passenger in the car and she couldn’t call for help on her phone, due to poor mobile phone coverage.
A passerby soon afterwards was able to raise the alarm on their own phone, but then it cut out after a few seconds.
After meeting Ms Hanna Keira MP Ryan Park said better coverage was “a priority” for him and federal Labor MP Sharon Bird.
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This week, things improved with Telstra announcing improved coverage along Picton Road.
“If you are in an accident or break down you need to know you can call for help and now this will be the case,” Mr Park said.
Ms Bird said the improved coverage would provide safety benefits.
“People who commute to south-west Sydney often experience frustration with call fails and blackspots and this can affect their ability to stay connected to work and keep in touch with family during their commutes,” Ms Bird said.
The improved coverage comes via the 4GX network, which Telstra said could reach further than previous 4G frequencies, creating extra coverage in rural and regional areas.
“This is a significant moment for drivers using Picton Road near Cordeaux who can now make, receive mobile calls and access high speed mobile broadband using Telstra’s latest 4GX services,” Acting Telstra Regional General Manager Ann Jakle said.