Disconnected & Frustrated:
Gilmore’s Mobile Blackspots Need Urgent Action
Mobile service across Gilmore is failing, leaving residents, businesses, and emergency responders struggling with call dropouts and unreliable coverage—and the 3G shutdown in late 2024 has only made things worse.
Independent candidate Kate Dezarnaulds is calling for urgent action to fix mobile blackspots that are impacting daily life and putting community safety at risk.
“We live in one of the most beautiful places in Australia, but when it comes to mobile service, we’re being left behind,” Kate Dezarnaulds said. “Local businesses are losing sales, emergency calls are failing, and in peak tourist periods, our networks simply can’t cope. This isn’t good enough.”
Businesses & Emergency Services Paying the Price
Across Gilmore, unreliable mobile service is disrupting businesses and emergency response efforts. In towns like Berry, small businesses have been left without EFTPOS services, forcing them to operate on a cash-only basis over the Christmas period. In Kangaroo Valley, emergency responders have struggled to maintain reliable communications.
Kate witnessed firsthand the dangers of poor reception at Berry Oval, where a child suffered a compound fracture during a football game. As the child lay in agony, bystanders frantically waved their phones in the air, desperately trying to get reception to call for an ambulance—but no one could get a connection.
"When phone service is patchy, businesses suffer and lives can be put at risk,” Kate said. “People should be able to trust that they can make a call when they need to—whether it’s for an ambulance or just to pay for groceries.”
Where is the Funding?
The federal government promised $6.5 million to improve mobile coverage in Gilmore before the last election, including fixing blackspots along the Princes Highway, Kangaroo Valley, and Worrigee. But residents say coverage hasn’t improved—if anything, it’s getting worse.
"Where’s that money gone? The community was promised better service, but we haven’t seen it,” Kate said. “It’s time for accountability and urgent action to fix the mobile blackspots across our region.”
What Needs to Happen Next?
Kate is calling for:
✅ A full audit of mobile blackspots in Gilmore, working with residents and councils.
✅ Urgent investment in mobile towers to reduce congestion, especially in high-traffic areas.
✅ Clear reporting on where the promised funding has gone and what’s actually been delivered.
"This isn’t about politics—it’s about fixing the problem. If the government won’t push for better coverage, the community will,” Kate said.
How Locals Can Get Involved
Kate is launching a community-led push to gather blackspot reports and push for faster action. Residents and businesses can:
- Report problem areas or share their experiences to strengthen the case for urgent upgrades https://www.kate4gilmore.com.au/contact
- @kate4gilmore on Facebook and Instagram
"Reliable phone service is a basic expectation. Gilmore deserves better, and I will fight to make sure we get it,” finished Kate.
—ENDS—
About Kate Dezarnaulds and Her Campaign for Gilmore
Kate Dezarnaulds is an independent candidate for Gilmore, committed to delivering practical, community-driven solutions for the South Coast. A local business leader and advocate for regional investment, Kate is focused on fixing real issues, including improving infrastructure, strengthening local economies, and ensuring government funding reaches the people who need it.
Kate’s campaign is built on listening to the community, advocating for transparency, and working collaboratively to achieve meaningful change. She believes that Gilmore deserves a strong, independent voice in Canberra—one that puts people before politics.
For more information, visit kate4gilmore.com.au or follow Kate on socials: @kate4gilmore
Authorised by Kate Dezarnaulds, Independent for South Coast Pty Ltd, 3/68 Albert St, Berry NSW 2535