Campo stamps his mark

Randwick Rugby Legend David Campese goose-steps into history with the release of the Australian Legends postage stamps released by Australia Post for Australia Day 2012. "Campo" was presented with 'his' stamps at a celebratory lunch last week at Darling Harbour. He was enthusiastically supported at the presentation by Randwick lunch-mates Jeff Sayle, Allan Stutchbury, Kevin Phibbs and Damian Maree.

All-time legends Ron Barassi, Joe Marston, John Raper and David Campese will also be immortalised on the 2012 Australia Post Australian Legends stamp issue, which recognises Australia's four dominant football codes - Australian rules, football, rugby union and rugby league.
The identities of the four football champions - one all-time legend - has remained a tightly-held secret until today, when the stamps go on sale.
The 2012 Australia Post Australian Legends were honoured at the official Australia Day lunch in Sydney , in addition to Australia Day events staged in all capital cities leading up to 26 January. Each Legend will be presented with a 24-carat gold replica of the stamp on which he features.
Australia Post Managing Director and CEO, Ahmed Fahour, said the 2012 Legends were chosen for their contribution to Australian sporting culture and for playing a vital role in shaping Australia as a great sporting nation.
"These four football legends have inspired millions of Australians with their remarkable achievements - both on and off the field. The stamps will be a constant reminder of the history these players have created - whether it be in Australian rules, football, rugby union or rugby league,"
To select the four individual recipients of the 2012 Legends Award, Australia Post established expert judging panels for each of the four codes - comprising a journalist, a broadcaster and a former champion player.
All-time rugby union legend and Coogee Oval favourite David Campese, who holds the world record for the most tries scored in top-tier Test matches, said he was thrilled to receive the award, given he had "passed on his jersey" many years ago. "I think to be part of that select group is something I will take to my grave," he said.
The Legends will feature on 8 x 60c stamps, a stamp pack, first day cover and set of maxicards. Accompanying the stamp issue is a commemorative biography, titled The Top of Their Game, written by sports author John Harms and journalists Ray Gatt, Mike Sheahan, Jim Tucker and Phil Rothfield.