Network headache increases

UPDATE

Last updated: 07/05/2021, 10:00:00 (AEST)

Telstra services were interrupted yesterday morning in Port Douglas impacting business operations, sales and payments and the ability for people to conduct work in the distressed location. IMAGE: Jeremy Lebeuf.

UPDATE:

Phone and internet services have been restored in Port Douglas on Friday morning.

EARLIER:

The network outage that disrupted businesses yesterday is still an issue as Telstra tries to restore the network.

Telstra said in a statement this morning that investigations last night (Wednesday) identified extensive cable damage due to a third party approximately 3kms from Port Douglas exchange.

“Due to the extent of the damage, the fibre repair crew were unable to attempt a temporary repair last night. But specialist equipment was arranged and the fibre team are onsite and have commenced repair work.

“Due to the extensive damage, repairs are expected to take several hours, so we thank all residents for their patience while we work hard to get services restored when factors out of our control interrupt telecommunications services,” said a Telstra spokesperson.

A Telstra spokesperson yesterday confirmed an issue had interrupted fixed and mobile telecommunication services “which we are working hard to restore.

“When communities are isolated and have no access to 000 emergency services, we treat them with the highest priority.

“Initial investigations ruled out a loss of power at the Island Point Exchange, and subsequent assessments suggest a fibre cable issue in the area,” the spokesperson said.