The tower – which will give mobile signal to local residents and motorists driving towards Dubbo – was part of a $6.4 million roll out by the Federal Government, in June 2015.

It was understood, the tower would be fast-tracked for completion by the end of 2016 after a fatal motorbike crash - west of Gulgong - in June. Those at the scene were unable to call for emergency services, with the area out of range of SOS only calls.

At the end of last year, Telstra advised that wet weather and a delay in obtaining local government planning approval had pushed the completion date into the first quarter of 2017. At the time, Member for Calare, Andrew Gee said the mobile phone tower was due for completion by March 2017.

Telstra Area General Manager Mike Marom said we understand the anticipation many in the Goolma community may have about when expanded coverage will be delivered in their area.

“Significant work has been occurring behind the scenes, including design planning, community consultations, the formulation and development of planning applications and working with local councils to get the best outcome for everybody.

“Telstra investigated a number of locations and undertook discussions with landholders to acquire an appropriate site for the Goolma mobile base station and a Development Application is now with Mid-Western Regional Council.

“Pending Council’s decision, we hope to deliver mobile coverage to the Goolma community by mid this year. Once complete, the new mobile base station will deliver 3G and 4G mobile coverage to a large part of the area for the first time,” he continued.

Mid-Western Regional Council has confirmed the Development Application for a telecommunications facility on Goolma Road has recently been approved. The Mudgee Guardian requested a comment from the Federal member for Calare, Andrew Gee.