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Australia seeking fatter mailmen
Tue, Feb 19, 2008
Reuters

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUSTRALIA'S postal service has increased the maximum weight for mailmen and women by 15 kilogrammes in an attempt to attract more 'posties', local media reported on Tuesday.

Australia Post had a weight limit of 90 kgs for 'posties' because its 110cc motorcycles had a safe working limit of 130kg - that's 40kg for letters and up to 90 kgs for mailmen and women fully clothed.

But after talks with motorcycle manufacturer Honda it was agreed the bikes could safely carry a 'postie' weighing 105 kgs, said Sydney's the Daily Telegraph newspaper.

But the 'posties' will only carry 25 kgs of mail.

The union representing mailmen and women said the 90 kg limit had caused recruitment headaches for Australia Post, but the company denied it had staffing problems.

'Testing found a rise in rider weight up to a maximum of 105 kgs would not have any significant effect on the stability, handling or safety of their 110 cc motorcycle,' an Australia Post spokesman told the newspaper.

'By raising it from 90 to 105 kilogrammes means there will be other people that can now apply,' he said. -- REUTERS

 

 
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