finance

Geelong Entrepreneur Expands Tech Backup Systems After Network Failures

Alex Rivera’s Bay City Networks expands backup systems for local firms after recent network disruptions.

By Geelong Business Desk · Published 20 July 2026

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Bay City Networks, founded by Geelong resident Alex Rivera, has secured contracts with 35 businesses in the past month to install redundant communication hardware that bypasses major carrier networks.

The rollout comes as regional operators seek alternatives following the 9 July Telstra outage that halted triple-zero calls and V/Line services across parts of Victoria. Rivera opened the company’s first dedicated workshop in 2023 on Moorabool Street in the Geelong CBD, focusing on mesh radio units and satellite-linked routers that operate independently of fibre or mobile towers.

Geelong sites and partnerships

The firm now operates a second testing facility inside the Geelong Technology Precinct on Brougham Street and works with the Geelong Chamber of Commerce’s small-business program to run monthly workshops at the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre. These sessions have trained 120 participants on configuring backup systems for retail outlets along Little Malop Street and manufacturers near the Port of Geelong.

Numbers behind the growth

Bay City Networks reported $2.8 million in revenue for the 2025-26 financial year, up from $1.1 million the previous year, and employs 28 staff. Average installation cost for a mid-sized café or warehouse stands at $4,750, with clients reporting monthly savings of $1,100 once they avoid lost sales during outages. The company plans to add six technicians by December and open a third site near Eastern Beach by early 2027.

Businesses interested in the systems can book a site assessment through the company website or attend the next free workshop scheduled for 23 July at the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.

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