RESIDENTS of Wagga's southern suburbs are rejoicing after news that the National Broadband Network has finally been connected.
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Tatton and Bourkelands have been eagerly awaiting connection to the NBN for years after being left behind when the network rolled out across much of Wagga in 2016.
Now, more than 4,300 homes and businesses across Wagga are able to access the internet service on top of the existing 18,900 connections.
With the recent move to work from home amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a strong, fast internet connection has become more important than ever.
Glenfield Park resident Adam Whicker knows all too well how vital a solid internet connection is when working from home.
"Our office had to start working from home at the end of March until May, so it was about six or seven weeks at home," he said.
The accountant at RSM said he was lucky enough to have an NBN connection at his home.
"You really do notice the difference using NBN in terms of loading times and connectivity, particularly when everyone was working from home and the network struggled," he said.
"Even for me with NBN, the internet slowed down, so I can't imagine what it would have been like without it."
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The requirement of video meetings, online chat tools and general access to company programs all rely on an internet connection.
"It is really difficult working from home with Zoom meetings, people are forever dropping out or freezing, or their microphones stop working, a basic internet connection just doesn't support it," Mr Whicker said.
While major construction works have been completed, there may be additional work required at some premises before the transition can be completed, according NBN Co Head of Corporate and Community Affairs, Jane McNamara.
"This is a significant milestone for the Wagga area, with homes and businesses now able to order a service over the NBN access network from a phone and internet provider," she said.
Ms McNamara did warn people to be aware of scams, though, as they contact their service providers to join the network.
"As the rollout nears completion, residents are also warned to be wary of scammers pretending to collect payment on behalf of NBN Co," she said.
"NBN Co is a wholesale-only company and does not request money direct from consumers.
"NBN Co does not make unsolicited calls, request remote access to a resident's computer or door knock to sell broadband services to the public."
At this stage in the rollout, Lloyd is one of the city's main remaining suburbs yet to be connected.