Overview
An Australian territory since 1958, Christmas Island is geographically much closer to Indonesia than to mainland Australia. It is home to a permanent population of about 2,000 people, whose origins lie in many parts of the world, including China, Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore and India. Many different languages are spoken, and the faiths observed include the Chinese tradition of Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Ba’hai and Christianity. This rich heritage is reflected in cultural festivals held each year, many of which are celebrated by the entire community, regardless of a person’s particular faith.
As well as the four festivals illustrated on this set of stamps, other important occasions celebrated on the island include Chinese or Lunar New Year, Hari Maulad Nabi commemorating the birth of the prophet Mohammed, the birthdays of Chinese temple gods, Territory Day, and of course Christmas.
The full moon at the top of each stamp symbolises the lunar calendars that determine the timing of many of the festivals. Against this is a map of the island itself.
Technical specifications
- Issue date
- 18 March 2025
- Issue withdrawal date
- 1 October 2025
- Denomination
- $1.50 x 2 , $3 x 2
- Stamp typography & product design
- Gary Domoney, VISUA
- Paper: gummed
- Tullis Russell 104gsm Red Phosphor/Blue PVA Stamp Paper
- Printer: gummed
- Southern Impact
- Printing process
- Offset lithography
- Stamp size (mm)
- 26 x 37.5
- Minisheet size (mm)
- 135 x 80
- Perforations
- 14.6 x 13.86
- Sheet layout
- Module of 50 (2 x 25)
- FDI postmark
- Christmas Island WA 6798
- FDI withdrawal date
- 16 April 2025
$1.50 Ullumbana Festival
During Ullambana, Buddhists and Taoists make offerings to wandering spirits; paper lotus flowers represent karmic merit and a wish for a fulfilling reincarnation experience for the spirits.
$1.50 Vesak Day Festival
Vesak day commemorates the birth, enlightenment and attainment of nirvana by the Buddha. These softly glowing lanterns represent self-reflection.
$3 Hari Raya Puasa Festival
This festival marks Eid al-Fitr – the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. At this time, the rice-cake delicacy ketupat is served in a pouch woven from coconut fronds.
$3 Mid-Autumn Mooncake Festival
Sweet mooncakes are part of the celebrations wherever people of Chinese heritage mark the traditional mid-autumn harvest season.
