Meeting Trees meet community demand for connectivity in time of disaster


High volume community access to mobile phones and wireless connections for computers has resulted in Bundaberg Regional Council endeavouring to ensure these communication tools function during emergencies.

Mayor, Cr. Mal Forman said that during disasters one of the first utilities to break down is electricity supply.

“Council has sourced three solar powered “Meeting Trees” that can be located in communities across the region to provide a power source during emergencies.”

“The meeting trees can be either mobile or fixed and offer a point for wifi access as well as recharging stations for phones and computers and a range of other services,” said Cr. Forman.

“This is a further initiative by Council in addressing concerns raised by the community in the wake of the recent flood and tornado disaster events.”

“It is imperative that the community and emergency response resources have the capability of ensuring they remain connected during emergencies,” said Cr. Forman.

One of the meeting trees will be permanently located in Gin Gin while the other two will be situated in Bundaberg but available for relocation as need demands.

Total cost for three trees is $66,000 with funding supplied through the Federal governments Community Development Engagement Initiative.

For more information http://bundaberg.qld.gov.au/news/2013/09/04/meeting-trees-meet-community-demand-connectivity-times-disaster