MANY areas of Port Stephens have been plagued by poor television reception since the switch to digital. Federal Member for Paterson Bob Baldwin admits "residents deserve better".
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In a statement, he acknowledged the "disappointment of residents in regards to digital TV", saying they are entitled to quality reception.
"The onus of quality television reception is on the government and commercial broadcasters," he said.
"The broadcasters have the licence, the frequency, the money and ultimately, the responsibility to their consumers."
For Salamander Bay residents Kevin and Robyn Mitchell, the admission from Mr Baldwin does little towards fixing their television reception. In January the Examiner reported the couple had a blanket blackout on all stations.
Since then their antenna has been moved and they can get some channels, but have to regularly retune.
"It is not as bad as it was but it is still not good enough. This close to the transmitter, it shouldn't be like this," Mr Mitchell said.
He said he had reports of poor reception from neighbours, as well as people in Tanilba Bay and Lemon Tree Passage.
Mr Baldwin wants to secure funding for transmitter improvements, much like the self-help transmitter which was delivered to residents in Fishermans Bay in 2012 to improve reception.
Do you have poor reception? Email news@pse.fairfax.com .au and tell us about it.
