Regional Tech Hub Podcast: Tech Hub Talk

In this inaugural episode of Tech Hub Talk, host Joshua Groch dives into the recent 3G network shutdown with special guest Kristy Sparrow, co-founder of Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia (BIRRR).

Kristy discusses why the 3G network was phased out, the technical impacts on rural and remote connectivity, and the real-world challenges faced by individuals and businesses who relied on 3G. She also shares practical tips on navigating the transition to 4G and 5G, advice on upgrading outdated devices, and insights into improving connectivity reliability. The episode also highlights the crucial work of BIRRR in advocating for connectivity improvements across regional Australia.

Whether you’re navigating coverage issues or curious about the future of rural telecommunications, this episode is packed with essential insights for regional Australians.

In this episode, host Josh Groch chats with Peter Thompson, a Queensland farmer and connectivity advocate, about the 3G network shutdown and its impacts on rural and remote communities. Peter shares his firsthand experiences transitioning from outdated systems like the party line to modern technologies like 4G, Starlink, and satellite connectivity.

Discover how technology has transformed farming operations, from tracking cattle to monitoring water systems, and learn practical tips for navigating the 3G shutdown. Peter also highlights the importance of redundancy, connectivity literacy, and what to look for when adopting Ag Tech.

Whether you’re a farmer, a tech enthusiast, or curious about rural connectivity, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice.

Tune in now for an inspiring and informative discussion!

In this episode of Tech Hub Talk, we sit down with Telstra’s Loretta Willaton, Regional Australian Executive, to explore the 3G shutdown from Telstra’s perspective. With nearly 30 years of experience, Loretta shares:
✅ The behind-the-scenes planning of the 3G shutdown
✅ The challenges of transitioning rural communities to new technologies
✅ The future of connectivity, including direct-to-handset satellite technology 

Loretta also reflects on the challenges and successes of managing one of Australia’s largest telecom transitions, offering practical advice for those navigating the shift. 

Whether you’re impacted by the 3G shutdown or curious about the next big thing in connectivity, this episode is a must-listen. 

Tune in now! 

In this episode of Tech Hub Talk, host Josh Groch speaks with Wendy Hick—a seasoned advocate for rural communications and cattle grazier at Thorntonia Station—about the critical role connectivity plays in emergency preparedness for remote regions of Australia.

Wendy shares her firsthand experiences navigating major natural disasters, including severe flooding in 2019 and 2023, and discusses:

✅ How to build connectivity redundancies on your property
✅ The role of emerging technologies like satellite solutions and GPS personal beacons
✅ Practical advice for staying connected during emergencies

Whether you’re looking to enhance connectivity resilience at your place or curious about how remote stations manage crises, this episode offers valuable insights you won’t want to miss.

In the season finale of Tech Hub Talk, host Joshua Groch is joined by Kristen Coggan, Community Engagement Manager at the Regional Tech Hub. They dive into a topic that’s crucial for rural and regional Australia: connectivity resilience during natural disasters.

Kristen shares expert tips on preparing for connectivity outages, from keeping power banks charged to downloading emergency apps. Drawing from her firsthand experience with NBN Local’s response to the devastating 2022 Northern Rivers floods, Kristen provides a behind-the-scenes look at how organisations help restore communications during crises.

Whether you’re looking for disaster preparation advice, curious about how telcos respond, or want to improve your communication resilience, this episode is packed with actionable tips and real stories to empower you.

Tune in for insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways.

Don’t forget to hit subscribe for Season 2 updates!