Starlink satellites boost disaster preparedness

COMMUNITIES throughout the Byron Shire will be better equipped to communicate during future natural disasters thanks to Starlink satellite dishes.

Byron Shire Council has provided portable Starlink systems to several volunteer resilience groups formed in response to the 2022 floods.

The groups include those in Bangalow, Federal, Goonengerry, Mullumbimby, South Golden Beach, Upper Coopers Creek and Wilsons Creek.

The technology will enable them to access the internet for emergency warnings, disaster information, and to use smartphones for emergency calls if mobile and NBN networks fail, as they did in many parts of the region during the floods.

The systems, funded by the NSW and Australian governments, also come with portable backup power equipment.

Bangalow Resilience Network communications co-ordinator Andy Winton-Brown said the Starlink system would operate alongside several CB radios purchased

through donations from local organisations, including the Bangalow Anglican Op Shop, Country

Women’s Association, Bangalow Bowling Club, and Bangalow Lions Club.

“It’s a pretty sophisticated piece of equipment,” he said.

“There are fold-out panels like great big bits of cardboard

that you fold out and point towards the sun.”

A handful of group members have received training on how to use the equipment, which is being stored in a secure area at Bangalow Showground, which acted as a major hub to prepare and distribute food during the 2022 floods.

“From time to time we’ll go down there and charge the battery up and be ready for whatever eventuality comes our way,” Mr Winton-Brown said.

“We may never have to use any of this equipment but if we need to, we’ll be ready.”

Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched Starlink in 2019, aiming to provide global satellite internet coverage.

It has expanded rapidly since then, offering internet access in remote and disaster-affected areas as well as improving connectivity in underserved regions.