Eric Hurrell has been prominent in South Australian philatelic organisations for many years.  He was Secretary of the South Australian Philatelic Association from its formation in 1977 until 1984, when he was elected President.  A position he held until the Association amalgamated with the South Australian Philatelic Council in 1990, at which time he was elected President of the new Philatelic Council, holding the position until 1992, when he retired.

The major achievements of the South Australian Philatelic Association were to conduct annual Congresses, which included a statewide philatelic competition, the arranging of judge training courses and preparations for the Inter-Asian philatelic Exhibition, Stampex '86.  Eric also supported the activities of the South Australian Stamp Promotion Council (later the South Australian Philatelic Council) during this period, working closely with its President, Brian Farmer, to conduct stamp fairs, assist with the Maximum Card project and to distribute educational material to young people.

He was also Secretary of the committee formed to purchase the property now known as SAPHIL House.  At the local level Eric has been a member of the ETSA (Electricity Trust of South Australia) Stamp Club since 1972, serving in many executive positions.  In 1986, Eric was awarded the Briskham Medal for his services to South Australian philately.

Nationally Eric held the position of Secretary of the Australian Philatelic Federation during 1991 and 1992.  He was Secretary of the organising committees of State, National and International philatelic exhibitions such as Stampex '86, '88 and '91 and Aeropex '88 and '94.

He has also been prominent in encouraging competitions at the local level to provide exhibiting experience for new exhibitors as well as judging experience for new judges.  Eric is an accredited State level judge in the Youth and Thematic classes.

Eric's main collecting interest is Australia which he has exhibited and also displayed at many societies.  He also promotes philately through radio interviews and talks.

Pictured top right:  Eric Hurrell (left) receives his MAP award from Maurice Williams AM, Chairman of Australia Post.

[ Source: APF News July 1995 ]