Satirist and actor Barry Humphries, the creator of Dame Edna Everage, today joined the exclusive ranks of Australians who have featured on a postage stamp during their lifetime, as the 2006 Australia Post Australian Legend.

Australia Post Managing Director Graeme John announced the honour today in recognition of Barry Humphries’ outstanding contribution to Australian culture and entertainment.

“As one of Australia’s greatest ever comedic characters and creators, Australia Post is delighted to immortalise Barry Humphries and Dame Edna Everage with this unique stamp release,” Mr John said.

“He has entertained and amused generations of Australians and captured the hearts of millions of people around the world through live performances, music, television series, books and films.

“For more than 50 years, he has helped shape our nation’s identity, culture and importantly sense of humour with hilarious character creations. Dame Edna’s signature catchcry ‘Hello Possums!’ has become a typically Australian greeting that’s recognised from Moonee Ponds to Marylebone.”

Barry Humphries is the tenth recipient of the Legends Award, and Dame Edna the first alter-ego to win the award since it was introduced in 1997.

Announced each year as the Australia Day stamp issue, the Australia Post Australian Legends Award recognises great Australians who have made significant contributions to the development of the national identity and character.

When the inaugural Australian Legends Award was presented to Sir Donald Bradman in 1997, it was the first time a living person other than a ruling monarch had been featured on an Australian stamp. 

Other great Australians who have been recognised in this way include Arthur Boyd, Slim Dusty, Dawn Fraser, Herb Elliott, Rod Laver, Margaret Court and Dame Joan Sutherland.

Last year’s Australian Legends stamps honoured six Australian fashion designers – Prue Acton, Jennifer Bannister, Collette Dinnigan, Akira Isogawa, Joe Saba and Carla Zampatti.

The 2006 Australian Legends stamp issue features 5 x 50c stamps, a first day cover, a set of maxicards and a stamp pack.   A 64-page book, titled Moonee Ponds to Broadway: The Legendary Barry Humphries, by Keith Dunstan, accompanies the stamp issue.

The Legends stamps and book are available now from participating Australia Post outlets or via mail order on 1800 311 794 while stocks last. Overseas customers can purchase on-line at: www.auspost.com.au/stamps

Media contact: 
Elizabeth Rich
Strategic Communications Manager
Australia Post
Tel: 02 9202 6393

Australia Post Stamp Shop:

• Visit the Stamp Shop online for more information