• Regional Tech Hub Podcast: Tech Hub Talk

    Season one

    Do you prefer listening to reading?

    Tech Hub Talk offers practical, easy-listening conversations hosted by Joshua Groch, featuring guest speakers discussing regional connectivity.

    Our first season opens with a conversation about the recent 3G shutdown, offering insights from various perspectives, including a bush connectivity advocate, a primary producer, and Telstra representatives.

    Future episodes cover real-life stories of resilience, including handling natural disasters in remote areas and emergency preparedness.

  • S1 trailer: Welcome to Tech Hub Talk

    We’re excited to introduce Tech Hub Talk, the Regional Tech Hub’s brand-new podcast bringing you practical, easy-listening conversations about rural, regional, and remote connectivity! 

    Hosted by Joshua Groch, Tech Hub Talk dives into the issues and innovations shaping digital access for regional, rural, and remote Australia.

    Head to your favourite podcast platform, listen to the trailer, and hit subscribe/follow so you don’t miss a single episode!

  • S1 E1: Understanding the 3G Shutdown with Kristy Sparrow

     

    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 She also shares practical tips on navigating the transition to 4G and 5G, advice on upgrading outdated devices, and insights into improving connectivity reliability.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.

  • S1 E2: A primary producer's perspective on the 3G shutdown with Peter Thompson

    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 Peter shares his firsthand experiences transitioning from outdated systems like the party line to modern technologies like 4G, Starlink, and satellite connectivity.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!

    Tech Hub Talk S1E2
  • S1 E3: A Telco's take on the 3G network shutdown

    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! 

    Podcast S1 Ep3
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