On Tuesday 9 June, Australia Post will join in the festivities of Queensland’s 150th anniversary celebrations with the release of two stamps that honour the significant contribution the sunshine state has made to Australian life and the way its history, places and achievements have helped shape its identity.

From the spectacular natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland outback, to iconic symbols such as the windmill and Queensland Parliament House, Australia Post has endeavoured to capture the essence of Queensland in this commemorative stamp issue.

Fittingly, the poem “Waltzing Matilda” written by Banjo Paterson typifies the spirit of early Queensland settlement. It was during Banjo Paterson’s visit in 1895 to Dagworth Station near the Queensland outback town of Winton, that Christina Macpherson set the words of “Waltzing Matilda” to music. Amazingly, the resultant ballad is still being sung by Australians today.

“As Queenslanders, this is something to really hang our hat on, celebrating the impact and legacy Waltzing Matilda has made to Australian life over the past 150 years,” said Helen Brodie, Commercial Manager Queensland, Australia Post.

“Australia Post has been part of Queensland community life for 150 years and we’re delighted to tell the Queensland story via this stamp issue, and in doing so highlight historical events and places such as the iconic ballad “Waltzing Matilda”, the stunning Cape Tribulation beach where the reef meets the rainforest, right down to the red-eyed tree frog,” she added.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has welcomed the historic initiative of Australia Post to kick start the “Queensland 150 Years” celebrations in Queensland Week.

“In such an important week in Queensland’s history, it is a great tribute to have a national institution such as Australia Post recognise the state of Queensland and its many wonderful achievements and qualities in such a way,” said Premier Anna Bligh.

“What a perfect way to cap off a wonderful week of celebrations in Queensland than to see our great state up in lights around the nation on a series of stamps.”

Since its beginnings on 6 June 1859, when a population of just 23,520 people celebrated the birth of the new colony of Queensland, the state has evolved enormously over 150 years, to a point when on Saturday 6 June 2009 over 4.3 million people enjoyed Queensland Day celebrations.

The two stamps – 55c and $2.75 – were designed by Sally Piskuric of the Australia Post Design Studio.

Other products include first day covers, a mini-sheet, a maxicard set and a stamp pack. The issue is available at participating Australia Post outlets, via mail order on 1800 331 794 or online at www.auspost.com.au/stamps from
9 June 2009 while stocks last.

For further information, please contact:
Stuart Osbourne
PR for Australia Post
M: 0412 190 820
P: 03 9696 2636
E: sosbourne@melb.javelinaustralia.com.au

Simone Kurtz
State Communications Manager
Corporate Public Affairs, Australia Post
P: 07 3405 1538
E: simone.kurtz@auspost.com.au

Australia Post Stamp Shop

• Visit the Stamp Shop for more information on Australia Post stamp issues, books, coins, collectables and souvenirs.