15 May, 2007

Today Australia Post will give every child a reason to get excited, with the release of a stamp issue featuring five outlandish acts performed under the big top.

Illustrated in colourful cartoon style, the designs depict the bizarre dental trapeze, the bendable banana lady, the death-defying human cannonball, the risky fire-juggling bicyclist and the stomach-churning inside-out man. They’ll leave the kids drop-jawed!

“The issue encompasses the spirit, humour and absurdity associated with the circus. It acknowledges the outstanding skills of performers and the entertainment value that circus has provided to generations of Australians,” said Noel Leahy, Group Manager, Philatelic.  

The dental trapeze design is based on an act performed by strongman Jonas Zilinskas, who held aerial trapeze artists in his teeth for the Ashton Circus for more 50 years. He performed until he was well into his 80s.

Marina and Arne Ellingstad performed an Adagio act throughout the world from 1954 to 1981, even performing with artists such as Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jnr. In an act of great balance and grace, Arne would hold Marina upside down and aloft, she performing a backbend while doing the splits. This act inspired the spectacular banana lady stamp design.

The human cannonball and flaming bike designs are both based on acts performed by members of Circus Oz. The inside-out man design depicts a contortion act that has long been common to circus around the world.  

This issue of five 50c stamps will be available from Australia Post outlets around the country from 15 May 2007 while stocks last. Other products in the range include a stamp pack, set of maxicards, stamp booklet, first day cover and prestige booklet. Overseas customers are able to purchase the stamps 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

Australia Post Stamp Shop:

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