The closure of the Caneland Central Post Office has sparked confusion and disbelief across the region, with residents and community leaders describing the move as short-sighted and totally unfair.
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox said he was advised the branch will shut its doors on 18 July, without any public consultation or clear reasoning from Australia Post.
“We don’t have an explanation, but it’s a decision made by some faceless, nameless person down south who doesn’t understand the impact this will have on local residents,” Mr Willcox said.
“The people most affected are the most vulnerable – our elderly, people with disabilities, young people without transport. We don’t have the public transport networks like the city. People down south just don’t get it.”
He said his office had already received dozens of calls and emails from concerned locals.
“This is more than just a post office, it’s a vital service for the community of Mackay and
surrounds.
“For many locals, especially older residents and those who are living with a disability, it’s their only practical way to access mail, pay bills, and stay connected,” he said.
“This is another attack on rural and regional Australia, and it’s simply not good enough.”
Long-time Mackay local Margaret Edwards, who represents a local seniors group with over 400 members, said many people had reached out to her in frustration.
“Mums and bubs, people with disabilities — they’re all affected by this closure,” she said.
“Canelands is the biggest shopping centre in the Mackay region — I’m sure of that — and now it won’t have a post office? It makes no sense.”
“Transport’s a big issue. Not everyone has a car. You’re talking taxis, buses, Uber, community transport — that’s an extra cost to them, or to us, the taxpayers.”
“I buy things there, post things there — now I’ve got to go somewhere else. It’s disgraceful. The worst decision anyone could’ve made.”
The sudden decision to close the Caneland Central Post Office on 18 July has been slammed as “disgraceful,” with locals and leaders outraged over the lack of consultation and the impact on Mackay’s most vulnerable residents. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
