Hello! We've prepared a digest of the new Australian stamps that have already been released or are about to be released in 2024. If you collect stamps from this country or are just interested, read on and stay tuned to learn more about current stamp releases in different countries. This is part 2 of the digest. You can read part 1 here.
Note that some stamps are not represented in their actual pictures. For more information follow the links in the article.
5. Norfolk Island 1974 Royal Visit stamp series
Norfolk Island is situated approximately 1,600 kilometers northeast of Sydney, in the South Pacific Ocean. It is located on a submarine ridge, along with New Caledonia, which is the closest neighbor at 875 kilometers to the north, and New Zealand at 770 kilometers to the south.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visited Australia three times in the 1970s. She made one of these trips to Norfolk Island at the beginning of 1974. Following Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, opening the Commonwealth Games in New Zealand on February 2, Princess Anne, Prince Philip, and Princess Anne's husband, Mark Phillips, boarded the royal yacht HMY Britannia to sail to Australia with the Queen.
This visit commemorated the Queen's first time on Norfolk Island. This was the 200th anniversary of Captain James Cook's arrival on HMS Resolution. After this document, the island was named after Mary Howard, who was Duchess of Norfolk. The royal entourage arrived on February 11, 1974, following Cyclone Pam, which made the trip from the anchored yacht in Sydney Bay to the Kingston jetty less than ideal. The Australian Capital Territory Minister, Gordon Bryant, as well as his wife, along with local dignitaries, welcomed the royal party upon arrival.
The visit to Norfolk Island lasted only 12 hours, but it was met with enthusiasm by the islanders, with around 2,000 people turning out to greet the royals. During the visit, the Queen interacted with locals, including descendants of the Pitcairn settlers, in Government House gardens, unveiled a plaque at Queen Elizabeth Lookout, visited historical sites such as the Melanesian Mission chapel and the golf clubhouse, and enjoyed outdoor dining under Norfolk Pines before a concert at Government House. The entourage departed back to the royal yacht by boat at 10:40 pm, escorted by the Royal Australian Navy ship, Torrens.
6. The Shared Table stamp series
Australia has not been historically recognized for its culinary innovations. Early influences from British and Irish traditions shaped the country's food scene, overshadowing the culinary traditions of Aboriginal people and Chinese migrants. However, from the mid-20th century on, Australia's food culture started evolving. This transformation was driven by changing demographics, increased global interactions, a growing focus on sustainability, and the emergence of celebrity chefs and popular cooking shows.
Culinary practices are deeply rooted in cultural heritage, passed down through generations. In a country as culturally diverse as Australia, diverse cultural influences have made their way into restaurant menus and home kitchens. Mediterranean (especially Italy and Greece), Middle Eastern (especially Lebanon), Asian (especially Vietnam and China), and Indian Subcontinent cuisines have played a significant role in shaping modern Australian cuisine.
7. Gert Sellheim Travel Posters stamp series
Gert Sellheim (1901–1970) was born in Estonia. His parents were from Germany, and he studied design, art, and architecture in many European countries. After this, he relocated to Australia, where he pursued his career. He started as a commercial designer. At first, he lived in Melbourne, then he relocated to Fremantle.
Sellheim created a series of striking posters that gained him recognition. His works showcased his unique aesthetic. Unlike other artists from Australia, Sellheim's style was characterized by sharp, abstract forms heavily influenced by European modernist movements. Sellheim passed away at 68, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and influential artwork.
8. Retro Audio stamp series
From the 1950s to the 1970s, a lot of Australians enjoyed getting together in front of a radio or a record player. Such devices were frequently combined into a single device known as a radiogram. The turntables were sometimes imported from Britain, but these adaptable systems were made in Australia. They had local components as well as woodwork. Radiograms were available in various sizes, from big two-meter pieces to compact 30-centimeter ones.
The era of Australian radio and radiogram production faced a decline in the 1970s because of changes in import laws. By the 1980s, CDs had largely replaced records, marking a shift in audio consumption habits. Despite this, vinyl has experienced a notable resurgence in mainstream popularity in recent years, offering a nostalgic return to the classic sound experience of yesteryear.
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