Stamp collecting remains one of the world's most popular hobbies, despite the decline of letter writing and postal services around the world.
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In Ballarat, the official history of philately, the proper name for stamp collecting, goes back to 1904 with the establishment of a club at the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute. Many members of the institute are keen collectors and Ballarat Philatelic Society president Peter morey says there's evidence the practice was established in the times of the goldfields, when stamps were in their infancy.
Originally stamps were an indicator that the fee, duty or tax for the delivery of an item had been paid. Affixed to the item, they were an easily recognisable symbol that it was able to be delivered. Originally marked with an engraving of the head of state (which enabled those who couldn't read to recognise the mark) it soon became popular to add other images - trains or animals, significant buildings or landmarks.
Over history stamps have become a fabulous way for young and old to educate themselves about the world, and to that end the Ballarat Stamp Club is arranging to send free packets of stamps to families who are interested in starting the hobby.
Peter Morey says while the society is keen for children to be involved in collecting, but also to offer help at a time when children need things to do.
"It could be an interesting outlet for them and help the parents as well...," Mr Morey says.
"If we can encourage a few more younger people to join that would be ideal. We have quite a few already, but not as many as we'd like."
Mr Morey says the collecting of stamps is a great way to learn about history generally - from the postal system itself to the images and histories of the countries from where the stamps originated.
"Children start by enjoying the big, colourful stamps, with planes and ships and things on them, and then if they become long-term collectors they might have a theme. My area of interest is the state of Victoria, for example, and postmarks as well, the postmarks of towns."
Alternatively they stamps can be used for craft and decorating, he says.
Any person who is interested in receiving stamps can - unsurprisingly - send a stamped, self-addressed, DL-size envelope to PO Box 337, Wendouree 3355, says Mr Morey.
For more information visit The Ballarat Stamp Club website.