Stamps in honour of the nation's five leading, living philanthropists have been unveiled on Australia Day eve.
The four stamps feature the portraits of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC DBE, Victor Smorgon AC along with his wife Loti Smorgon AO, Lady (Mary) Fairfax AC OBE and Frank Lowy AC.
The five were named as co-recipients of the 2008 Australia Post Australian Legends award.
Australia Post managing director Graeme John said the awards were held every year, with each recipients' 50 cent stamp in public circulation for Australia Day.
"The Australia Post Australian Legends award recognises great Australians who have made life-long contributions to the development of our national identity and character," Mr John said.
"Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, Victor and Loti Smorgon, Lady Fairfax and Frank Lowy have all been inspirational in the way they have dedicated so much to the wellbeing of our community."
Mr Lowy and Lady Fairfax attended the Sydney luncheon where they were presented with a 24-carat gold replica of their stamp.
Mr Lowy, founder of the $60 billion Westfield shopping centre group, said it was a unique honour.
"Until I received their letter last year, I had never thought of the possibility of appearing on an official postage stamp," Mr Lowy told the gathering of about 1,400 invitees.
"But now that the stamp is a reality, it is really very exciting.
"Thank you Australia Post for creating this collection of stamps and the Australia Day Council of NSW for organising this wonderful gathering."
Mr John also said the five had joined the exclusive ranks of great Australians to feature on a postage stamp in their own lifetime.
Previous recipients of the honour include Sir Don Bradman (the inaugural recipient in 1997), Slim Dusty (2001) and Barry Humphries (2006).
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