The Camden Haven Courier was approached by two business people concerned after speaking to their Yellow Pages advertising representatives collecting ads ahead of the November 26 deadline for inclusion in the 2012 book.

A Yellow Pages spokesperson told the Courier the traditional coverage of the phone book (Nambucca to Taree, Wauchope to Lord Howe Island) would be split into two books, with the 2439 postcode marking the split.

This means businesses in the Camden Haven who want to reach potential clients will need to advertise in two books.

“I was told advertising in the two books would not be at any extra cost,” said local vet Gavin Rippon.

“But to split the Camden Haven between the two areas does not make any sense. As vice president of the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce I’m very disappointed in their decision and lack of commonsense.”

Painter and decorater Chris Whalley said he thought having two phone books to cover the Camden Haven was a joke.

“I’ve advertised in the yellow pages since 1976,” he said.

“It means if people want to contact a business in Kendall or Kew they’ll either have to have two phone books or be able to go on the internet.”

The Camden Haven Courier contacted Sensis, the company who produces the Yellow Pages. A spokesperson confirmed the split. Questions as to why the decision was made could not be answered. The spokesperson said the 2012 books will be delivered free in their respective districts, however receiving a “Kempsey region” book or a “Taree region” book would cost $25 to $30.

The Courier also contacted Telstra regarding the White Pages. A spokesperson said they had not been informed of any changes for the 2012 edition of the White Pages.

The Courier was advised that people with complaints can write to the Yellow Pages complaints department at GPO Box 2910, Melbourne, Victoria 3000.