Home owners worry about proposed 40m telco tower going up next door

Homeowners in Wyndham, Western Australia's northernmost community, are expressing anger and disappointment over plans to erect a 40-meter telecommunications tower adjacent to their properties. NBN Co is behind the development, which will be situated on a bush block on the outskirts of the town site.

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Who's going to purchase a property where the tower is that high that if it fell over it'd knock your house down?

Long-time resident Harry Ciccotosto voiced his frustration, questioning the desirability of properties near such a large structure. "Who's going to purchase a property where the tower is that high that if it fell over it'd knock your house down?" he stated, calling the plan "ridiculous." Residents are also dismayed that the tower will obstruct their views of the Cockburn Ranges.

The parcel of land was excised from a reserve by the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley in June 2025 specifically for the tower. However, residents whose properties border the reserve claim they were not officially notified until mid-July, when the shire sent letters regarding the public comment period, which runs from July 9 to July 30. NBN Co's site selection report only became public once this consultation period began.

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It's ridiculous.

Glen Highett, a neighbor for seven years, expressed dismay that residents were overlooked in the site selection. "There's closer proximity to residents here than the other sites," he said, adding, "It should never have been on the table." NBN Co stated the Durack Road site was chosen through collaboration with the Shire and extensive assessments, with the council providing feedback on its suitability. However, Ciccotosto disputes this, arguing that the site's proximity to residents should have disqualified it.

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There's closer proximity to residents here than the other sites.

Minutes from the June council meeting indicate that "community engagement was not required" for the excision, which passed unanimously. Residents like Highett and Ciccotosto are experiencing significant distress, with Highett stating, "We're feeling sick to the stomach." They are worried about the tower's impact on their views, potential health effects, and property values. NBN Co has encouraged feedback during the public comment period.

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It should never have been on the table.