WHEN Best Job in the World winner Ben Southall was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish off Hamilton Island in 2009, little did he know that five years later he'd be educating the Australian public about 'Things that Sting'.

The British-born adventurer and wildlife warrior has joined Australia Post in calling on stamp collectors of all ages to observe the 'Things that Sting' during Stamp Collecting Month (SCM) this October.

As the former 'Caretaker of the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef', Mr Southall has spent much of his life helping to conserve wildlife in its natural habitat, and is encouraging students across the nation to learn about and appreciate Australia's unique and varied flora and fauna.

"I've always felt at home in the great outdoors and it's no secret Australia has numerous insects and animals that can sting or bite as a form of defence. Sharing the environment with these creatures means you can sometimes be [in] the wrong place at the wrong time," he said.

"That's why it's important to learn to identify potentially dangerous insects and animals and take sensible precautions to avoid being stung or bitten. It's a great thrill to team up with Australia Post and showcase a few of Australia's spectacular wildlife creatures through Stamp Collecting Month." The 'Things that Sting' stamp issue for this year's Stamp Collecting Month features six spectacular creatures including the European wasp, bull ant, tiger snake, reef stonefish, common lionfish and the bluespotted fantail ray.

The initiative is supported by a dedicated online education resource for teachers, parents and students. The website includes information and facts on each of the creatures featured, as well as lesson, ideas and activities, animated stamp images and much more.

Things that Sting stamps and associated products are available at participating Post Offices, via mail order on 1800 331 794 and online at auspost.com.au/stamps while stocks last. For information visit http://www.auspost.com.au/scm.