Mackenzie Island (Gaelic: Eilean Mhic Coinnich) is a small island off the tip of the Rhinns of Islay. Currently uninhabited, the island lies about 200 metres across the sea from Portnahaven and is a haven for seals and other wildlife.

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There are two small islands a short distance away from Portnahaven, both of very similar size. The most well-known is Orsay, mainly because of its lighthouse, which also happens to be a reputed haunt of the feared Brollachan! The other, lying to the east of Orsay, is Mackenzie Island.

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In 2021 the island’s owner, Piers Casimir-Mrowczynski, approached us and asked if we would be interested in creating a set of stamps for Mackenzie Island. We agreed to this and felt a Mackenzie Island issue would enhance our project as well as help to put this small island on the map.

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Mr Casimir-Mrowczynski bought the island in 2012. A regular visitor to Islay, he became interested in the site of special scientific interest and part of the reason for his decision to spend £55,000 on purchasing it was to prevent the island from being developed in the future. He also bought it to be his final resting place, where he can be buried with his wife when the time comes.

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The four stamps were designed by ourselves, with three of the four photographs being provided by Mr Casimir-Mrowczynski. Various designs were considered, with Mr Casimir-Mrowczynski making the final decision. The images show views from Portnahaven bay towards Mackenzie     Island (25p and 75p values), the view from the island looking north-east (50p) and the view looking westwards, with Orsay lighthouse in the distance (£1).

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In agreement with Mr Casimir-Mrowczynski, money raised from the sale of these stamps will be donated to the Scottish Wildlife Trust.