Louise Markus (Macquarie, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today with great concern for the community of Winmalee in the Blue Mountains in the electorate of Macquarie. Devastated by bushfires in October 2013, Telstra placed a temporary mobile tower in Winmalee, an investment of approximately $60,000. It served the community well while Telstra looked to lease land to build a more permanent solution. Telstra found land at Summerhayes Park with a recommended annual lease price, in a review of telecommunications site rentals report, dated 25 March 2013, of $15,000.

The Telstra GM, a resident of Winmalee himself, in an attempt to build and service the community, offered $10,000 more than this recommended amount. However, this increase was not enough, and a bidding game now exists with Telstra, where council would rather raise funds than see this great community gain an essential service. Council has decided to play a game of Monopoly. What is important here is the safety of the people of Macquarie. (Time expired)

Mrs Bronwyn Bishop (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Order! In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members’ statements has concluded.