Christmas stamps depict vibrancy, warmth and tradition
Monday, 15 November 2010
Australia Post has officially kicked-off the festive season with the release of this year's Christmas stamps featuring three unique themes: the traditional nativity scenes, warm "Dear Santa" images and the vibrant Christmas Island issue.
"We know many people like to start sending Christmas cards early so we release our Christmas stamps in November each year," said Christine Corbett, Australia Post Executive General Manager Retail Services.
"For two hundred years, Australia Post has delivered Christmas cards and we estimate that around 70 million cards will be sent this Christmas ensuring the tradition is as popular as ever.
"Australia Post is providing plenty of Christmas stamp options so there's something for everyone and, as always, card-only stamps will be five cents cheaper throughout the Christmas period. Just remember to write 'card only' on the envelope."
When choosing Christmas cards, senders should remember to select standard card sizes (no larger than 130mm x 240mm) to qualify for the 55c stamp rate for Australia and $1.30 stamp rate for overseas.
The traditional nativity themed stamps, designed by Bruce Goold, are a commemorative issue of two stamps - Madonna and Child (55c) and Angel and Shepherds ($1.30).
The Dear Santa themed stamps are also a commemorative issue of two stamps illustrated by Mark Sofilas - one of Santa reading a letter from a child and the second depicting a child writing to Santa - both are 55c denomination.
The release of these stamps is a timely reminder for children to post their letters to Santa early so he has time to send a reply before Christmas!
The vibrant Christmas Island Christmas issue is centred on the theme of giving, with the magnificent Golden Bosunbird soaring above Christmas Island looking for a place to deliver its Christmas gift in the 60c stamp. The international post $1.30 stamp depicts the Golden Bosunbird sitting with a beautifully wrapped gift bound by flowers native to Christmas Island. These colourful stamps were illustrated by Rob Kiely.
The full Christmas stamp range is available from participating Australia Post retail outlets, via mail order on 1800 331 794 or online at auspost.com.au/stamps while stocks last.
For further information about Christmas postal rates, Santa Mail, international and domestic posting deadlines and tips on correct packaging, visit the staff at your local Australia Post retail outlet, contact us or visit auspost.com.au/christmas.
