To celebrate Australia’s hosting of the largest event in world sport this year, Australia Post today issued a commemorative series of Rugby World Cup 2003 stamps.

The stamps and associated product are available today from Australia Post outlets nationally and they will be an excellent memento of what promises to be the best Rugby World Cup yet.

Rugby World Cup 2003 Stamp Issue
In recognition of the international status of Rugby World Cup 2003, this three stamp series features one local postage stamp ($0.50) and two international postage stamps ($1.10 and $1.65).

The $1.10 stamp features the famous Webb Ellis Trophy against the backdrop of Telstra Stadium in Sydney where the Event’s Opening and Closing matches will take place. The other two stamps feature rugby action shots combined with a gold silhouette of a rugby field. Each stamp combines the blue and green theme of Rugby World Cup 2003 with a gold finish.

The stamps and associated products are available from 8 October from Australia Post outlets. Following is an overview of Rugby World Cup’s Australia Post product range.

Stamp Pack
Retailing at $6.95 the stamp pack features two sets of the three stamps in a high gloss booklet containing strong rugby imagery.

Souvenir Booklet
Retailing at $10.95, this pocket-sized booklet features interesting information about each of the 20 competing nations at Rugby World Cup 2003. The booklet includes a souvenir postcard of the Webb Ellis Cup and three miniature sheet panes, each containing three copies of one stamp.

Maxicards
Maxicards are stamped and postmarked postcards released by Australia Post to commemorate most stamp issues. There are three Rugby World Cup 2003 maxicards which are available as a set for $5.50. Two of the maxicards feature classic rugby icons while the third features a shot of the famous Webb Ellis Cup.

Story of the Rugby World Cup by Nick Farr-Jones
This fabulous 80 page book, released on 20 August 2003, is the Story of the Rugby World Cup as told by Australia’s Rugby World Cup 1991 winning captain, Nick Farr-Jones.

The book takes readers on a journey from the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987 held in Australia and New Zealand to the dual Australian triumphs of 1991 and 1999 as well as the disappointment of 1995.

Readers are taken into the locker room and onto the field as Nick shares his insights into this world class event over the years as a player, a successful captain and a commentator. Farr-Jones’ compelling words are accompanied by stunning photographs that capture the excitement and atmosphere of world rugby’s premier event.

Story of the Rugby World Cup retails at $29.95 and is available now from participating Australia Post outlets nationally or mail order freecall 1800 331 794.

More information at http://www.auspost.com.au/philatelic/stamps/rugby/