Mackay CBD post office set to close

Daily Mercury

Mackay is losing a CBD post office after being given the boot by the centre’s owners, according to Australia Post.

Australia Post’s Caneland Central office is set to close on July 18, sparking frustration from locals who still rely on the crucial service.

Federal member for Dawson Andrew Willcox called the closure “a blow to the town’s connectivity” and said the closure came “without providing any explanation” from Australia Post.

This is more than just a post office, it’s a vital service for the community of Mackay and surrounds,” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox said he’d received many phone calls and emails from constituents following the announcement and said Mackay was being “short changed”.

“That’s just unacceptable,” Mr Willcox said.

But Australia Post said they were asked to vacate rather than leaving by choice.

It is believed the new tenants are being charged a higher rent, a claim which has been put to Caneland’s management.

Lianne Gee, marketing manager for Caneland Central said AusPost’s lease had reached its conclusion.

“Following a review of their operational footprint in Mackay, it is our understanding they have made the strategic decision not to renew their lease at Caneland Central, opting instead to consolidate their services across existing locations.”

“We remain in close contact with Australia Post to support a smooth transition and minimise any disruption to customers throughout this process.”

An Australia Post spokesperson said over the last four years customer visits fell by 30 per cent “resulting in substantial financial losses”. The spokesperson said the Mackay Post Shop was close by as well as licensed post offices in North and West Mackay.