For Immediate Release, Tuesday 16 September 2008

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Australia Post celebrates International Polar Year 2007–08

Australia’s role in International Polar Year 2007–08 is recognised by Australia Post with a four-stamp issue highlighting Australia’s important contribution to the science disciplines of astronomy, glaciology, oceanography and marine biology.

This new Australian Antarctic Territories stamp issue, designed by Melbourne-based Chris Shurey, comprises two 55c stamps (astronomy and glaciology) and two $1.10 stamps (oceanography and marine biology), with some imagery captured by the scientists during their research. Australian scientists lead the four projects represented on the stamps.

The International Polar Year 2007–08 was launched in March 2007 and is being conducted over two Arctic and two Antarctic research seasons. This international campaign of research and observation marks a new era in polar science, and comprises more than 150 research projects in earth, life and social sciences. Australia is playing a leadership role in six of these and is participating in more than 40 others.

“The International Polar Year is an important initiative that drives many research projects in environmental and human impact fields. Australia Post is delighted to acknowledge Australia’s leading role in six of these projects and its contribution to many others,” said Noel Leahy, Group Manager of Philatelic, Australia Post.

The current International Polar Year is the fourth in the history of the event, with the first being held in 1882–83 to facilitate Arctic exploration. The second was held in 1932–33 and the third, titled International Geophysical Year, was held in 1957–58 and broadened the focus to include Antarctica.

The stamp product range of this issue includes a miniature sheet, two first day covers, a stamp pack and set of four maxicards. The issue is available from selected Australia Post outlets and via mail order on 1800 331 794 from 16 September; overseas customers can purchase the stamps online at www.auspost.com.au/stamps.




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