The final day of the Australian leg of their tour was all about matters of state and ceremony as Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall touched down in Canberra for a reception at Government House and to lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial.
But before their pow-wow with the politicians, the couple began the day on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin where — watched by hundreds of local families waving flags, representatives of the High Commissions of Commonwealth countries, Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Leader of the Opposition Tony Abbott and his wife Margie — Parkes Way was renamed Queen Elizabeth Terrace to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen.
The new name complements the adjacent streets Queen Victoria, King Edward and King George Terraces, making this a royal quartet in this pretty parkland within the parliamentary zone, firmly stamping the capital’s links to the Monarchy.
The waiting crowd was entertained by a note-perfect performance from the Wooden Valley Youth Choir, singing a predictably nationalistic repertoire which included those familiar standards ‘I Still Call Australia Home’, ‘I Am Australian’ and ‘Waltzing Matilda’.
Escorted by the Prime Minister, the royal couple arrived to applause, as they have at every stop on this tour.
Julia Gillard has been largely absent for the royal visit, co-chairing a democracy forum in Bali but when asked how she thought the royal visit had gone said.
“I’ve been overseas myself so I’ve been watching from on far, but it seems to have gone delightfully well.”
Despite her republican sympathies, the Prime Minister gave a heart-felt and respectful welcome speech saying directly to the Duchess of Cornwall: “I hope you’ve discovered the warmth of the Australian character and a land you will always feel welcome in.”
She went on to express Australia’s gratitude to the Queen: “This place will be a lasting tribute to Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee, inscribed forever in the architecture of our capital. It will remind future generations that for more than half our journey as a united nation Elizabeth II has been our monarch.
“No-one in the history of our federation has shared more consistently in the affairs of our Commonwealth or followed them with deeper interest and goodwill.
“As Canberra prepares for its centenary it is fitting that the Queen’s life of duty is given recognition here in our nation’s heart, and her wisdom and dignity are honoured among the people she has so faithfully served.”
The ensuing walkabout proved very popular with, Charles and Camilla, who was wearing a brown jacket and Fiona Clare printed dress, separating to greet as many members of the public as possible.
“I love the way they come and meet us,” said Fiona, 47, a Canberra local who had no idea she was actually going to be able to talk to the Prince personally.
Another job well done for this very dynamic royal duo.
