CONSTRUCTION of the National Broadband Network (NBN) in and around the city continues in earnest in the lead up to August when 18,000 businesses and houses in Orange will have access to upgraded internet technology.
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Two Orange City Councillors who have been following the NBN’s progress, Cr Jeff Whitton and Cr Reg Kidd, remain divided in their opinions on the efficiency of the much-publicised service.
Cr Kidd said he and his wife Kerry are 5.4 kilometres from the post office but have come to the end of their tether in negotiations with their communications provider Telstra to improve their internet and mobile phone connections.
“My sons recently visited from Singapore and New York and couldn't believe how bad it is at home - they said it was like something out of the 'Wild Wild West," said Cr Kidd.
He said he and his wife find it even more frustrating their reception and download speeds are poor considering they are just on the outskirts of the city.
“When I look up and see the lights of the Duntryleague car park knowing how close we are to Orange and then sit down at the computer and can't download, it is extremely frustrating,” he said.
“We are not alone and I know there are plenty of people out there in the same position - so my advice to you is don’t sign up to anything unless you have NBN and Telstra inspect your property for suitability.
“That's exactly what’s happened in our case and they are coming in a couple of weeks because we have been at loggerheads with them for months.
“I don't know how kids manage who have to download for homework and schoolwork - it's just not good enough.”
However Cr Whitton, who works in the technology sector, has a vastly different experience.
“We live on the southern side of Orange and have had NBN WiFi for the last six months and have been very happy with the service,” Cr Whitton said.
“I have been in this industry for many years and I have to say I am very impressed with the reliability of the system we are working with at home.”
When it comes to an understanding of how the NBN system is linked to providers Mr Whitton believes many residents are left with unanswered questions.
“Many don't understand the system - the NBN is providing the fibre and they have to negotiate individually with the major providers such as Telstra or Optus for their needs,” he said.
Cr Kidd said he believes people are still confused by the system.
"I would say to people do your homework before you sign up to any package," he advised.
