Overview
- Artist Bobbi Lockyer sent the custom painting by express post before Christmas, but the recipient received only an empty cardboard sleeve on Christmas Eve.
- Lockyer says a Darwin post office staff member advised using the sleeve and attached it, while the recipient was told the item was packaged improperly and their case was closed.
- Australia Post says it has apologised and is continuing a network-wide search for the missing canvas.
- Lockyer did not purchase extra cover, and Australia Post notes most services include up to $100 compensation unless higher cover is added.
- The lost work was a $4,000 bespoke commission with cultural significance, and Lockyer says early responses from the carrier were generic and blamed the sender.