Copper Mine in North West QLD: 1 Gbps Symmetric Connectivity
A design study then delivery of a solar-powered tower network giving a remote copper mine 1 Gbps symmetric connectivity, with future expansion sites surveyed in.
A copper mine in North West Queensland needed high-speed, reliable connectivity to support its development and operations. With limited telecommunications infrastructure in the area, a robust network was critical for seamless operations, safety and the well-being of on-site personnel.
The challenge
The mine needed a dependable network delivering 1 Gbps symmetric connectivity for administrative functions, operations and communications for construction and mining teams, with room to grow as later facilities were installed.
Design study first
MarchNet was engaged to deliver a comprehensive design study evaluating primary and secondary connectivity options. The study proved the feasibility and superiority of the primary solution, which the customer then proceeded with.
- Local fibre analysis and capacity checks: confirmed capacity on local fibre networks, the most effective breakout points and associated costs, and identified 1 Gbps of carrier fibre capacity at a pit location where a tower could be built.
- Scope, design and construction: a 21 m guyed lattice mast and a 10 m freestanding tower, both solar powered, were built; a 50 m guyed lattice mast and two 20 m monopoles for construction offices and camp facilities were surveyed and provisioned for future use.
- Landowner negotiations and environmental approvals: MarchNet completed all approvals, and when part of the desktop design was found to sit on protected wildlife habitat it adjusted the project scope to avoid any disruption.
The design study gave the customer the information and surety on solution, pricing and timelines needed to decide. The customer proceeded, and MarchNet then met the design study estimates.
The outcome
- Seamless connectivity: a 1 Gbps symmetric network supporting operational efficiency, communication and safety.
- Future-proof design: the planned 50 m mast and other scalable components allow for expansion.
- Regulatory compliance: landowner agreements and environmental approvals aligned with community and regulatory expectations.
Talk to MarchNet: 1300 627 244 | sales@marchnet.com.au