1985 Conservation

These stamps portray conservation through intriguing graphic images to bring awareness to its importance.

Conserve Our Soil is the theme of the 33c stamp, which depicts a tree growing in the disappearing sands of an hourglass. Soil is in an enclosed and finite environment and lends urgency to the appeal for the conservation of nature’s balance. No time can be spared as topsoil lost through over-clearing, over-grazing, and over-cropping may never be replaced.

The striking image of the Precious Pure Air on the 50c stamp depicts a cloud hanging on a clothesline, conveying the need for clean, pollution-free air. By showing it as something as routine as washing, it reminds us of individuals responsible for keeping our own patch of sky clean.

Water is Precious on the 80c stamp shows a flowering tap expressing the life-giving essence of water. Life, growth, and development are symbolised by the flower, while the tap represents water, and that design suggests that water is life. Living in a desert country, most Australians have experienced periods of water restrictions during droughts and therefore know the value of water.

And lastly, Conserves Energy on the 90c stamp is portrayed by the harnessing of a column of flame. The flame symbolises all forms of energy, and the chain represents control of its usage and waste prevention.

Technical Details

Stamp design: Lyndon Whaite and Grant Jorgensen

Denomination: 33c, 50c, 80c, 90c

Stamp size: 26 mm x 37.5mm

Perforations: 13 3/4 x 13x 1/4

Printer: Cambec Press

Printing process: Photolithography

Paper: APWH stamp paper

Issue date: 19 May 1985