Australia Post celebrates World Cup journey

Australia Post today will complete their celebration of the Socceroos journey by commemorating their outstanding achievements at the 2006 FIFA World Cup with the release of a Souvenir Stamp Sheet (SSS) titled ‘Socceroos 2006 World Cup Dream’.

Australia Post today will complete their celebration of the Socceroos journey by commemorating their outstanding achievements at the 2006 FIFA World Cup with the release of a Souvenir Stamp Sheet (SSS) titled ‘Socceroos 2006 World Cup Dream-.

The SSS celebrates the journey undertaken by the Socceroos - and 20 million Australians - during the World Cup. From Australia-s victory over Japan to the final 16 ending in defeat by Italy, the SSS encapsulates the excitement and glory of the team and players in action.

This special edition souvenir sheetlet features nine green and gold 50c stamps from the “Soccer in Australia” stamp issue, with an action shot of a soccer player striking the ball and the word “GOAL” emblazoned across each stamp. Interspersed are nine action images of the Socceroos including Tim Cahill, Mark Schwarzer, Harry Kewell, John Aloisi, Craig Moore, Marco Bresciano, Brett Emerton and coach, Guus Hiddink.

“The Socceroos have made Australia proud through their efforts at the World Cup. This souvenir stamp sheet celebrates the highs, lows, wins and defeats - but most of all it celebrates the journey,” said Mr Noel Leahy, Group Manager Philatelic, Australia Post.

“This sheet is a great way for Socceroos fans to remember their own journey throughout this momentous occasion in history and to demonstrate to the rest of the world that we-re proud of our team, by mailing them to friends and family overseas.”

The Socceroos 2006 World Cup Dream SSS is available from postal outlets Australia-wide for $15.95.

The latest stamp sheet ‘Socceroos 2006 World Cup Dream- is the third Socceroos sheetlet released by Australia Post. In November 2005, Australia Post released the first souvenir product to celebrate Australia-s qualification for the World Cup. The second was released on 25 May, 2006 with the announcement of the Socceroos World Cup Squad, celebrating the 23 men to represent Australia for the first time since 1974.

Australia Post also issued a ‘Soccer in Australia- stamp range on 16 May which featured stamp packs, maxicards, first day covers and for the first time ever, a circular minisheet.