Tattarang backs dark-fibre player

Tattarang has further expanded its portfolio of IT interests with an approximately $25 million investment in dark-fibre infrastructure provider FibreconX.

That comes after the Andrew Forrest-backed investment vehicle got behind NSW-based internet service provider Swoop in February.

Swoop went on to merge with Geraldton-based ISP NodeOne Internet and list on the ASX in April.

The business has since expanded its network and user coverage through a series of major acquisitions of regional ISPs, including Western Australia-based outfit ComComs.

Sydney-based FibreconX specialises specifically in the construction of dark-fibre networks, having connected 32 major data centres across Sydney with the technology earlier this year.

John Hartman, who serves as Tattarang's chief investment officer, said the company was well placed to meet future demand for high-capacity fibre from emerging digital markets.

“Fibre infrastructure is a key driver for the continued digitisation of the Australian economy, and we believe FibreconX is ideally positioned to capitalise on growing demand for reliable, flexible and secure data and connection services in Australia,” he said.

FibreconX chief executive Mark Rafferty said the investment was well timed, given the company was aiming to grow its Melbourne and Brisbane operations in the coming year.

“We are excited to be delivering this infrastructure and fibre services to the market where there has been a lack of specialisation and availability for our partners," he said.

"We believe Australian cities can be the centres of tomorrow’s global digital economy and we are proud to be leading the delivery of the critical building blocks that will create this future."