Queen’s Birthday stamp honours Order of Australia

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This year’s Queen’s Birthday stamp, released in April, celebrates the 82nd birthday of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, and also acknowledges the 28th year that Australia Post has commemorated the occasion.

Australia Post has produced a special Queen’s Birthday stamp each year since 1980, and this year’s stamp pays tribute to the Queen’s Badge as Sovereign Head of the Order of Australia, a symbolic adornment worn by the Queen exclusively when in Australia.

The 2008 Queen’s Birthday series features one stamp with a detailed photographic depiction of the Queen’s Badge, and the second stamp features the Queen in formal regalia at an official dinner held at Parliament House in Canberra during her most recent visit to Australia in 2006.

Australia Post Philatelic Group Manager, Mr. Noel Leahy, says the series is traditionally popular and well received:
“The Queen’s Birthday stamps resonate with many Australians. This year’s focus on the Queen’s Badge has particular relevance to Australia, with the Order of Australia having been established by Her Majesty in 1975. A pre-eminent award within the Australian Honours System, the Order of Australia is an inclusive community based awards system and works on the premise of nominations by the community, for the community” he said.

“We believe this series will hold particular value and relevance as it not only commemorates the Queen’s 82nd birthday, but also honours the Order of Australia award” said Mr Leahy.

The 2008 Queen’s Birthday stamps are available from participating Australia Post outlets and via mail order on 1800 331 794 while stocks last. Overseas collectors can place orders online at www.auspost.com.au/stamps. Stamps are available in several collectible formats including First Day Covers, Stamp Pack, Maxicards and a Minisheet.