THE mystery surrounding the metal telecommunications-style boxes appearing across Medowie and surrounding suburbs continues, with government representatives and engineering experts confirming that there is still no clear explanation for the installations.
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said the matter had now been escalated to the Federal level, noting that telecommunications infrastructure fell under Commonwealth responsibility.
“As telecommunications is a federal responsibility, I have asked the Federal Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson, to make formal representations to the Minister for Communications regarding concerns about telecommunications boxes being installed in the community,” Ms Washington said.
Ms Swanson is also seeking answers on behalf of residents who have contacted her office.
“I understand the frustration and concern felt by local residents,” she said.
“I’m working hard to ensure we have clear information about why these boxes have been installed and what purpose they serve.
“The community deserves transparency. I will continue advocating on their behalf until those answers are provided.”
Ms Swanson’s office also received correspondence this morning from a resident advising that one of the boxes had since been removed.
She described the update as encouraging and hopes further information will follow.
Engineering experts couldn’t identify the structures either.
Associate Professor Lawrence Ong, of the School of Engineering at Newcastle University, said the design does not match common telecommunications equipment.
“I initially thought that they were NBN FTTN cabinets, though those cabinets usually don’t have solar panels,” he said.
With no confirmed operator and no official explanation, the boxes remain a mystery.
By Ruby van de WIJGAART
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