1985 Cockatoos Vending Machine

In March 1985, Australia Post introduced new one-dollar stamp folders for sale from vending machines. The folder contained three identical 33c stamps and a 1c stamp to make up the dollar value. The wallpaper design features the Sulphur-crested cockatoo.

The Suplhur-crested Cockatoo or Cockies is one of the largest and one of the more common birds in Australia and one of the best talkers. They have white plumage, bright yellow crests with undersides of their flight and tail feathers tinged with yellow. Known for their noisy screech and longevity, they congregate in large flocks. In the southern parts of the continent, the breeding season lasts from August to January and in the north, from May to September. They make nests for their eggs in a hollow lime or tree hollow, preferably a eucalyptus near water. They usually lay two eggs, and both male and female take turns sitting on the nest. The chick emerges after an incubation period of four weeks and is ready to leave the nest six to nine weeks later. The birds feed on seeds on the ground until mid-morning, pass the heat of the day idling in nearby trees and feed again in the arvo before returning to their permanent roosting site. They fly to the same area daily until they have exhausted the food supply. When in open country, a few take up positions as guards, screeching loudly at the approach of an intruder causing the entire flock to take off instantly.

You will receive one of each stamp denomination, perforations of the 33c stamp may vary depending in availability.

Technical Details

Stamp design: Russell Bevers

Denomination: 33c and 1c

Stamp size: 44.2mmx26.15mm

Perforations: 14 1/2 (133c stamp in each folder is imperforate on three sides

Printer: Leigh-Mardon

Printing process: Photolithography

Issue date: 13 March 1985