By Belinda Nolan
A SYDENHAM resident has started up a petition to campaign for a new post box to be installed in her suburb.
Joy Tanti says the nearest post box is at Watergardens Shopping Centre – a 50-minute walk from her home.
The 55-year-old pensioner suffers from asthma, forcing her to drive to post her letters.
“I can walk short distances but I really can’t cope with walking so far,” Ms Tanti said.
“I think it’s ridiculous to have to get into the car every time you want to post a letter. It’s a waste of petrol.
“There just aren’t enough post boxes in the area and it’s not fair for people with a disability.”
Keilor MP Natalie Hutchins has also joined the campaign, amid concerns that Sydenham has less access to post boxes than in neighbouring suburbs.
But Australia Post has thrown cold water on the campaign, claiming the area is already well serviced by post boxes.
Australia Post spokeswoman Melanie Ward told Star the company had reviewed postal services in Sydenham and believed that the current six post boxes were adequate.
“Further boxes would not be viable at this stage,” she said.
Ms Ward said decisions on where to install post boxes took into account likely levels of usage, location of other boxes, as well as the cost of providing, maintaining and clearing the box.
A petition calling for more post boxes is available to sign at Ms Hutchins’ office in Aquagardens Shopping Centre in Hume Drive.
