07/11/2024
For immediate release
MarchNet, a leading provider of telecommunications services to regional and remote sectors including agriculture, renewable energy, mining, wholesale and government, and Freedom Internet, a rapidly growing provider of internet to multi-dwelling units and hotels, have been acquired by Geoff Marsh and his leadership team, with backing from private credit firm Epsilon.
The acquisition, which was finalised on 31 October 2024, includes a significant injection of working capital designed to fund key network upgrades, support geographical expansion, and enable value-adding acquisitions. This marks a new chapter for both businesses, which continue to serve critical industries with advanced telecommunications solutions.
Strategic Leadership Continuity
Geoff Marsh, one of the original founders of MarchNet in 2012, is returning as Group CEO, having previously served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) until his exit in 2022. Under his leadership, MarchNet established itself as a leader in regional telecommunications, particularly in sectors where connectivity is crucial. Marsh’s return, alongside the backing of Epsilon, signals a renewed commitment to accelerating the growth and innovation of both MarchNet and Freedom Internet.
The senior leadership team at both companies boasts years of experience, ensuring continuity for key relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. Shane Bennett, who has over 10 years of experience with MarchNet and Freedom Internet, rejoins the company as Group COO. Lisa Clarke, also with more than a decade of experience, returns as Director, Company Secretary, and Group CFO.
Other key appointments include Jake Gibbens, who has been promoted to General Manager of Freedom Internet after 4.5 years with the company, and Morne du Plessis, promoted to Group Head of Network Development after four years with Freedom Internet.
Additionally, Andrew Walpole continues as Sales Director of MarchNet, having spent three years in the role and with a distinguished 25-year career in telecommunications.
Investing in Growth and Innovation
As part of the acquisition, substantial capital allocations have been made to upgrade the core network infrastructure, with a focus on ensuring a redundant 100Gbps capacity across the eastern seaboard. These improvements are designed to support the growing demand for high-performance connectivity in remote and regional areas, as well as multi-dwelling units and hotels.
The businesses have also begun an initiative to in-house their support functions, with the aim of delivering industry-leading customer support and service. This move is expected to enhance the customer experience and provide faster, more efficient solutions for clients across both sectors.
“We’re excited to be leading the next phase of growth for MarchNet and Freedom Internet,” said Geoff Marsh, Group CEO. “These companies are integral to the communities and industries we serve, and with our team’s deep industry knowledge and strategic capital investments, we’re poised to continue innovating and expanding our services. Our focus remains on providing reliable, high-quality connectivity solutions to agriculture, renewable energy, mining, government, and beyond.”
MarchNet is a specialised telecommunications provider focused on delivering reliable and innovative services to regional and remote Australia. Serving critical sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, mining, wholesale, and government, MarchNet is a leader in connecting the most underserved areas with state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure.
About Freedom Internet
Freedom Internet is an emerging leader in providing high-speed internet solutions to multi-dwelling units (MDUs) and hotels across Australia. The company has seen rapid growth in recent years and is committed to offering tailored, flexible solutions that meet the evolving needs of the residential and hospitality markets.
For more information, please contact:
Media Contact: Geoff Marsh
MarchNet & Freedom Internet
Public Relations
Phone: 07 3606 1500
Email: sales@marchnet.com.au
Website: www.marchnet.com.au www.freedominternet.org
