Astrologers, stamp lovers and anyone who gets pleasure from glancing at their star signs should get a kick out of Australia Post’s stunning Signs of the Zodiac stamp issue, released today.

The Signs of the Zodiac issue comprises 12 x 50 cent stamps and represents the full zodiac cycle. The complete set of stamps is available in a collectable stamp pack and each stamp design has its own booklet of 10 self-adhesive stamps. The stamp pack is ideal for collectors and astrologers alike wanting to celebrate the entire zodiac, while the individual booklets are great for those who revel in the quirkiness of their own particular star sign.

The stamps have been illustrated by Mitch Vane and are designed to provide a light-hearted take on the personal qualities associated with each star sign. A children’s book illustrator, Mitch says that humour plays a large part in her work and that she is passionate about visual storytelling.

In that tradition, Mitch’s brightly coloured, cartoon-like figures bear their zodiac symbols and are flanked by tongue-in-cheek words suggesting the defining characteristics of each sign. For example, the Aries Ram design features the words “Dynamic” and “Competitive” alongside a racy, dumbbell-wielding, Arian character, manoeuvring his winged, red sports car with a single hand.

“The Signs of the Zodiac stamps are designed to be a fun and light-hearted look at astrology, and are the perfect gift idea for family and friends, highlighting quirky personality traits,” said Mr Noel Leahy, Australia Post Group Manager, Philatelic. “There is something in these products for everyone – whether they consider themselves true astrologers, simply like to read their star sign out of curiosity, or like to laugh at each sign’s characteristics.”

The Signs of the Zodiac stamps can also be used to create your own Personalised Stamps^TM perfect for sending out those birthday invitations! Personalised Stamps^TM are an Australia Post product, where consumers can add a photograph of their choice to the tab next to the stamp. These can be ordered online at www.personalisedstamps.com.au or order forms are available at local Australia Post outlets.

The Signs of the Zodiac stamps will be available from participating Australia Post outlets around the country from 3 April 2007 or via mail order on 1800 331 794. The philatelic range includes a minisheet, stamp pack, a first day cover and 12 booklets, one for each of the Zodiac star signs. Overseas customers can purchase online at www.auspost.com.au/stamps

High resolution images are available upon request.

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

Prue Cripps
Australia Post
Philatelic Group
P: 03 9204 7629
E: prue.cripps@auspost.com.au