Optus put forward the proposal to construct a mobile base station, equipment shelter and a two-metre-high security fence. 

A spokesman working on behalf of Optus said the tower would have great community benefits and would be built behind a “string of trees”. 

 “Only some houses to the East of it (the tower) will see it,” he said. 

Councillor Andrew Connor said it was a “great proposal”. 

“Mole Creek went from having no services two years ago, now it has NBN, Telstra and Optus,” he said. 

“Hopefully it leads to some more competitive coverage in the area.” 

Councillor John Temple questioned what would happen to the tower if it was no longer required. 

“Towers are apparently going to be redundant in a few years and satellites will take over,” he said. 

Cr Temple moved an amendment stating that if the tower fell into disuse for more than two years the owner/operator would be responsible for its removal and site remediation. 

Councillor Deb White seconded the motion, with Councillors Tania King, Bob Richardson, Rodney Synfield, Temple, and White voting for the motion. 

On Wednesday, July 19 Telstra expanded their 3G and 4G coverage to Mole Creek. 

The expansion was part of the Federal Government’s mobile black spot program. 

Related stories: 

Black spot state

Phone fix at Mathinna 

Senator David Bushby said improved phone coverage makes communities better. 

“In times of emergency it gives people greater confidence that they can reach the services they need as they need them,” he said.

Senator Bushby said the program was making a “real difference” to all Tasmanians and its visitors.

Under the program, 15 towers have been completed in Tasmania, with more under construction. 

Meander Valley mayor Craig Perkins took advantage of the new service to upload photos to his social media accounts.

 “Something that couldn't be done that long ago … uploading photos on social media at Mole Creek,” he said.