Christmas Island Christmas stamps

According to News.com.au Santa Claus can be seen lazing on the beach in Australia Post's latest issue of stamps from Christmas Island.

In a Christmas tradition which began in 1993, Australia Post produces stamps featuring Christmas Island every second year. This year's 45 cent stamp shows Santa arriving at Christmas Island in a tiny yacht piled high with presents, while the 90 cent stamp shows a crane lifting the presents onto the island's jetty.

The $1.10 stamp has Santa resting on the beach, surrounded by presents and overrun by the island's crabs. The stamps are illustrated by Sydney-based artist Lloyd Foye, whose work often explores Australian beach culture.

Australia Post also is celebrating a significant milestone with the release of the 50th issue of Christmas stamps in Australia. Five classic Christmas stamp designs have been selected for the occasion, with each portraying the artistic style, social mood and cultural values of the time.