Stamp celebrating 100 years of radio released by Australia Post

Australia Post have marked the upcoming century of Australian radio with a stamp illustrated by Harry Slaghekke and inspired by a 1940s Max Dupain photoshoot for the AWA Radiola.

The console is set to the “Music Lovers Hour” on 2BL, now known as ABC Radio Sydney. Initially called 2SB, 2BL made the first official public broadcast in Australia on 21 November 1923.

Australia Post Executive General Manager Retail Catriona Noble said the stamp celebrates this important milestone:

“The introduction of public broadcast radio established a connection between Australian communities and other countries, as well as being a much-loved source of entertainment and news. As an essential community service ourselves for more than 200 years, Australia Post knows just how important this form of communication and technology is to every Australian.

Harry Slaghekke has beautifully illustrated this iconic scene that is a snapshot into many Australian homes during the 1940s. It’s a great reminder of how far we’ve come technologically in the past 100 years.”

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, said radio remains a vital form of communications for millions of Australians:

“Over the last one hundred-years, radio has connected, informed, and entertained Australians. It has been there during our most joyous national celebrations, and been a lifeline in times of disaster.

This stamp marks an important milestone for radio broadcasting, as a sector that continues to evolve and thrive.”

The stamp costs $1.20, and can also be purchased as a sheetlet pack and a sheetlet of ten stamps. For further information about how to collect yours visit www.australiapostcollectables.com.au.