A vibrant new series of stamps by Australia Post pays homage to the ancient marine life that once thrived in the waters surrounding Kangaroo Island. These remarkable illustrations, crafted by artist Dr Peter Trusler, are based on 512-million-year-old fossils from the Palaeozoic era, showcasing the evolutionary wonders that emerged during a pivotal period in Earth’s history.
Celebrating Prehistoric Life
The stamps, titled “Creatures of the Palaeozoic,” feature striking depictions of ancient organisms unearthed from the unique Emu Bay shale deposit. This site is renowned for preserving delicate, non-mineralised structures and even some soft tissues, making it an extraordinary location for palaeontological studies. Dr Trusler’s artwork is informed by cutting-edge research conducted by Diego Garcia-Bellido, a senior researcher at the South Australian Museum, along with Prof John Paterson from the University of New England-Armidale.
“While we can’t definitively ascertain the colours of these long-extinct creatures, the illustrations are as scientifically accurate as possible, given our understanding in 2026,” Garcia-Bellido explained. The artistic licence taken in the depictions aims to provide a vivid glimpse into a world long vanished.
The Artistic Process
Trusler admitted that diving into the world of invertebrate palaeontology posed challenges, particularly as he navigated the intricacies of painting these ancient beings. “I had my eye on the Emu Bay site for some time, but my background in painting invertebrates was limited, leading to a steep learning curve,” he noted. His dedication and research have culminated in a series of illustrations that not only represent the creatures accurately but also captivate the imagination.
The fossils featured in the stamp series include several fascinating specimens. Nesonektris aldridgei, a swimmer measuring approximately 18 centimetres, showcases early vertebrate characteristics with a rudimentary backbone. The Emu Bay Shale monster, a smaller, worm-like organism, is adorned with spines and stubby legs, while the formidable Anomalocaris daleyae, known for its large size and hunting appendages, reaches about 50 centimetres in length. Notably, Redlichia rex, the largest trilobite identified from this era, measures around 25 centimetres and possesses spiny legs designed for crushing and shredding food.
A Window into the Past
Visitors to the South Australian Museum will have the opportunity to view these stunning illustrations up close. Dr Samantha Hamilton, the museum’s director, expressed excitement about the exhibition, stating, “As soon as visitors enter the museum, they will be greeted by these creatures in all their glory—a perfect window into a world that existed millions of years ago.”
The stamps serve not only as a tribute to the history of life on Earth but also as a reminder of Australia’s rich fossil heritage, providing an engaging way for the public to connect with ancient ecosystems.
Why it Matters
This stamp series represents more than just a collection of images; it encapsulates the deep, scientific journey into the past and highlights the importance of preserving and understanding our natural history. As we confront the challenges posed by contemporary environmental changes, acknowledging our evolutionary roots provides vital context for the ongoing narrative of life on this planet. By bringing awareness to these prehistoric beings, Australia Post is not only celebrating a significant aspect of the nation’s heritage but also inspiring future generations to value and protect our natural world.
