They're for a Good Cause

After months of being out of control, the Australian wildfires were finally contained with the help of heavy rainfalls.  Unfortunately, the devastation these fires left behind will have a permanent impact on the country and their ecosystem.

At least twenty-eight people lost their lives and thousands of people have lost their homes due to these recent wildfires.  And if that weren't terrible enough, the number of animals that have possibly been affected:  one billion.  It's hard to even wrap my head around that number.

Back in January, Ryan (SumoMenkoMan) texted me about Topps producing a set where all of the proceeds would be donated to help relief efforts.  I immediately went over to Topps.com and purchased a set for $19.99.

I received the twenty card set a few weeks ago and noticed that the set is split into two halves:  local wildlife and famous landmarks.

I was very impressed by the photography, but don't take my word for it.  See for yourself:

#1 Red Kangaroo

#2 Koalas

#3 Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo

#4 Platypus

#5 Tasmanian Devil

#6 Flying Fox

#7 Brush-Tailed Rock Wallaby

#8 Dingo

#9 Long-Footed Potoroo

#10 Regent Honeyeater

#11 Kangaroo Island

#12 Great Barrier Reef

#13 Uluru

#14 Twelve Apostles

#15 Three Sisters

#16 Dunns Swamp

#17 Shark Bay

#18 Mount Kosciuszko

#19 Great Victoria Desert

#20 Mutawintji National Park

Here's a closer look at two of my favorite singles from the set:

Each card was printed on Heritage-style card stock and features a writeup on the back with a description of the animal or landmark.  It's simple, but in a good way.

I don't usually buy into Topps and their online exclusive products... but I'm glad I bought this set.  The only drawback is that every time I look at it, I'll be reminded of the devastating wildfires and all of the destruction it did.

One day, I'd love to visit Australia and see all of these places and wildlife in person.  I know a few people who have been there and they all said it was beautiful.

What about you?

Have you ever been to Australia?  Any favorite Australian landmarks or animals?

Well... I hope you enjoyed this Set Showcase.  I probably have over one hundred small sets sitting in boxes.  Maybe I'll pull a few out and start featuring them on this blog.  Let me know if you'd be interested in reading these kinds of posts.

Happy Saturday and sayonara!