The Outback Major Grant was introduced by the Trust in 2021 to support the advancement of the outback through innovative technology and communications. Mr Mohr-Bell’s project aims to install, test and report on an experimental private communications network exploring different technologies for areas without mobile phone service. 

Mr Mohr-Bell has been pursuing a solution to this ongoing challenge for over 10 years which has led to his involvement in several remote communications committees. “This type of technology has yet to be tested in these conditions. No one really knows if a private communication network with higher capacity and range, is the practical, reliable and cost-effective method for remote data collection in harsh environments”  

“Data collection, analysis and communication is core to almost every new agricultural innovation and technology which has the potential to dramatically enhance the productivity and efficiency of extensive agricultural systems. But they require communication networks to deliver data back to a central point for analysis and action. Existing communication systems via satellite, UHF and point to point wifi are unreliable, costly and limiting. Areas with 3/4/5G mobile coverage can avoid many of the issues however most of remote and very remote Australia do not have access to this coverage. We hope this pilot will provide a long-term solution that other people in the industry can use in the future” 

“With the support of this grant, the project will determine the costs of constructing and maintaining the network, identify practical implementation and operational challenges and provide a demonstration site for other potential users of similar systems.” Said Mr Mohr-Bell. 

“The Trust was impressed with the perseverance of Pancho Beef to pursue communications options that will work in the bush. Whilst there have been many technological advances in the past few years, communications in very remote locations remain unreliable and costly. This project could be the difference that the agriculture industry in the northern outback needs to move toward a future that sees business in the bush just as connected as business in the cities. Which aligns with the vision of the Trust for a thriving outback.” Said Mr Coffey. 

The Trust was established by E.J Connellan (the NT pioneer, aviator and pastoralist among many endeavours) and the Connellan Airlines shareholders in 1981 following the sale of the NT based airline. Due to the generosity of many and the efforts of E.J Connellan the Trust continues to support people in Outback Australia through a variety of grants and scholarships. 

The Outback Major Grant will be offered again in 2022. 

For Media Enquiries Contact: Connellan Airways Trust: Jessica Hacket, Executive Officer: 0439 049 646