Aus Post investigation continues over stolen Rockhampton parcels

Hundreds of parcels were allegedly stolen in a 13-hour heist at the Rockhampton Mail Centre. Australia Post is working through the damage with some customers eligible for compensation.

Rockhampton police are investigating after an Australia Post Mail Centre was broken into on the weekend.

Customers who allegedly had their parcels stolen in a 13-hour heist at the mail centre in Rockhampton last month may still see their packages recovered as staff work through torn and opened items, while others will need to apply for compensation.

Police allege a group of persons broke into the Australia Post Centre in Berserker on February 25 about 7am.

Over a period of 13 hours, it is alleged the persons came and went from the centre, disguising themselves as workers in high-vis clothing, opening and taking packages and mail items.

About 9pm, an Australia Post vehicle was allegedly stolen and was later found burnt out at 11.40pm that night at Parkhurst.

No final figure was given on how many parcels were allegedly stolen during the incident, however it is believed to be in the hundreds.

The facility is the main sorting centre for the wider Capricornia district, sorting and distributing mail for as far west as Winton.

Customers who suspected they had parcels affected were advised to lodge an inquiry with Australia Post.

A Yeppoon resident was expecting a parcel containing a handmade item she had bought off Etsy and has shared her frustration over the process.

The seller of the parcel lodged an investigation regarding the outstanding item and received a response from Australia Post on Friday, March 3.

In the letter, it states “Australia Post at fault: No”.

The letter goes on to state the seller would not be receiving compensation.

“Unfortunately we have been the victim of a (alleged) vehicle break in at Rockhampton Mail Centre, which is where you(r) parcel was held prior to delivery,” it outlined.

“We regret that your parcel appears to have been (allegedly) stolen during this incident.

“Compensation is not available where loss or damage was not caused or contributed to by Australia Post.

“We’re deeply sorry that our customers have been impacted by this (alleged) crime, and reassure you that we take the safety and security of all our mail very seriously.”

The letter ends with links for help and support and a link to “close my case”.

The Morning Bulletin requested a response from Australia Post as to why customers were not receiving compensation and it provided the following statement.

“Following a (alleged) break in at the Rockhampton Post Office, a number of items were damaged or stolen,” it read.

“Australia Post has been working with the Queensland Police Service as part of an ongoing investigation.

“We have worked through the impacted items and are now in the process of delivering recovered items.

“We understand the frustration of people impacted by the recent (alleged) break in. Australia Post is in the process of contacting impacted customers regarding compensation.”

When asked if extra security measures had been taken at the site, an Australia Post spokesperson said the business worked hard to ensure the safe delivery of items and, in the vast majority of cases, these are delivered safely and securely.

It is also understood an internal review is taking place.

Jason Robert Beattie, 47, and another 34-year-old Allenstown man have been charged in relation to the alleged break-in

Both men have faced court and are awaiting hearings later this month.

Police are still looking for four or five other people and the investigations are continuing.

Customers with concerns are encouraged to contact Australia Post on 13 POST (13 7678).