Australia Leaves its Stamp On Shanghai World Expo
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
All eyes are on the Shanghai World Expo 2010 in China which opened on 1 May as expectations are that it will be the biggest world exposition in history. With participants from more than 190 countries taking part the theme for this year's expo is "Better City, Better Life". To celebrate Australia's participation in the event, Australia Post is releasing two new stamps on 18 May.
Australia Post Philatelic Group Manager, Noel Leahy, said, "More than 70 million visitors are expected to attend the World Expo over its 184 days. This is a great opportunity to promote Australia to the world and we wanted to help do just that."
The Shanghai World Expo 2010 is a chance for participating countries to introduce their solutions for our urban future. The Australia pavilion will host a range of cultural and business programs designed to showcase Australia's innovation and dynamism in the context of the Expo theme. The pavilion's clever interior combines both static and dynamic exhibits to engage and educate visitors in three distinct but inter-related "acts" - Journey, Discover and Enjoy. The pavilion projects a clear image of contemporary Australia: a country with a sophisticated modern economy, a skilled and well-educated workforce, and a culturally diverse society.
The two 55c stamps have been designed by Jo Muré of Australia Post's Design Studio. The first stamp showcases the stunning Australian pavilion. The Australian pavilion with its sculptured shape and red ochre colour uniquely evoke Australia. The second stamp features Australia's mascot for the Expo - a cheeky, fun-loving kookaburra named Peng Peng after the legendary Chinese bird, and whose name carries connotations of "friendship" in Mandarin.
Stamp products include a sheetlet of 10 x 55c stamps, a sheetlet pack, a first day cover, a maxicard set of two and a stamp and coin cover. The stamp issue will be available for purchase from 18 May at participating Australia Post retail outlets, via mail order and from the online stamp shop while stocks last. To find out more go to www.auspost.com.au/stamps
