In 1869 Austria produced a simple blank postcard that was half the cost of a regular letter. Other countries followed including Australia with New South Wales producing the first postcard in 1875, followed by Victoria in 1876.
Post offices held the monopoly on the postcards until1895 when the Victorian Government gave permission for privately printed postcards could be sold and a stamp affixed. With no telephone connection Torquay to Geelong the postcard was the easiest way to send a quick message between the towns. World War 1 saw a boost in the postage of picture postcards showing the scenery and they were quick to write a message home. As we look back on the collections now, the vintage postcards provide an insight into the culture and lifestyle of bygone eras and their messages provide an insight into their lives.
Visit our YouTube channel to see of our collection of postcards Torquay Picture Postcard Past.
Find out more about postcards by visiting 150 years of postcards https://150yearsofpostcards.com/history