In 2021, we look to The Queen as an iconic, legendary figure – a woman who has gained invaluable wisdom over her 94 years.
But many years ago, when she was settling into the role that would later see her become Britain’s longest serving Monarch, the young Elizabeth was full of youth, vibrance and a flair for fashion – a flair that has never left her, might we add.
If you needed the reminder, the Palace has just provided that for us in the best way.
Posting to Twitter on Tuesday, Buckingham Palace shared a picture of The Queen on her very first tour of Australia back in 1954 – just a year after her Coronation.
The striking image includes the young Queen, who was 27 at the time, standing before a line of marines.
She wore a gorgeous brown trench coat, its silhouette synonymous with the iconic fashions of the 50s, along with a hat perched perfectly atop her curled hair.
“To mark Australia Day, we are sharing this #throwback of The Queen during her first tour of Australia. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh sailed into Sydney Harbour on 3rd February 1954,” the Palace wrote in the caption.
A number of Tweeters shared their thoughts on the incredible moment in time, with one writing: “My parents showed me a lovely book about this visit, many happy memories, it was a lovely era, wish we could turn the clock back.”
“The Queen’s discreet charm is unique and personal,” said another.
The incredible picture was met with wonder from fans.
(Twitter / @RoyalFamily)This marked one of many royal moments Down Under.
In decades gone by Elizabeth has visited several more times, this alongside sporadic visits from her children and grandchildren who have also flown to different parts of Australia.
In 2018, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan flew Down Under for their first joint royal tour – a whirlwind one at that, seeing them visit Sydney, Melbourne, Fraser Island and Dubbo, among other scenic spots.
Harry and Meghan were a hit in Dubbo.
(Getty)The Palace’s post yesterday was incredible to see, but there is another element to Australia Day important to consider – there is a strong movement campaigning to change the date of Australia Day given it marks the beginning of the British colonisation of Australia – land owned by the country’s Indigenous people without intervention for at least 65,000 years.
The arrival of British people on Australian soil dramatically reduced the native Indigenous population, largely due to mass killings, loss of traditional lands, food sources, and the spread of diseases such as smallpox.
Many call the day “Invasion Day”, and instead, are campaigning for the date of Australia Day to be moved.
WATCH: Hugh Jackman shares a bold message on Australia Day:
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