Anglo American has closed a connectivity gap in Central Queensland, investing in major mobile network upgrades to solve a long-standing mobile black spot on a critical transport corridor.
Delivered in partnership with Telstra, the upgrade extends 4G and 5G coverage on the route between Middlemount and Tieri, used daily by hundreds of mine workers, suppliers and emergency services.
Aquila Mine General Manager Braedon Smith said the investment reflected Anglo American’s ongoing commitment to safety and its focus on helping build thriving communities for future generations in the regions where we operate.
“Reliable connectivity saves time and can save lives,” he said.
“The road between Middlemount and Tieri carries hundreds of mine workers and community members every day and improved network reliability will strengthen emergency response capabilities in the region.
“We know how vital it is for our people and communities to stay connected, especially during this festive season, and this upgrade will also ensure stronger coverage and safer communication for residents, schools and small businesses across the region.”
The new 4G and 5G infrastructure enables faster, more reliable communication at Capcoal and Aquila mine sites, supporting safety-critical systems and digital technologies that underpin Anglo American’s mining operations.
Telstra Regional General Manager Rachel Cliffe said the project highlighted the benefits of collaborating with industry.
“This investment means better connectivity for the community — not just for mine sites but for families, small businesses and travellers along this key corridor,” she said.
“Access to mobile coverage on the road is important for business, safety and keeping the family entertained during a long road trip, especially at this time of year when many people are travelling.”
This project comes on the back of another significant investment in wifi at Anglo American’s Middlemount camps, further enhancing connectivity both on site and in town.
In Australia, Anglo American has five steelmaking coal mines in Queensland’s Bowen Basin, along with additional joint venture interests in manganese and base metals exploration projects.
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