King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Australia for a “historic” six-day tour, marking their first visit to the country as reigning monarchs.
The royal couple landed in Sydney, echoing Queen Elizabeth II’s landmark 1954 tour, which took place a year after her Coronation.
This visit holds significant importance as it is King Charles’s first trip to a Commonwealth realm since ascending the throne in September 2022.
The tour comes amidst planned protests by anti-monarchy groups and Republican sentiment in Australia.
However, the King and Queen have expressed enthusiasm for their visit, sharing a heartwarming video on social media showcasing previous royal trips to the country.
King Charles’s first trip to Australia echoes that of his late mother’s, Cameron Walker has claimed
Reuters
The royal itinerary includes visits to Canberra and Sydney, followed by a three-day state visit to Samoa. In Samoa, King Charles will formally open a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
Dr George Gross, royal historian, highlighted the significance of the tour, stating: “This is a tour of significant firsts.”
He noted it’s the King’s first visit as sovereign since 2011 and his first official overseas tour since his cancer diagnosis.
GB News Royal Correspondent Cameron Walker highlighted the historic nature of the visit, stating: “This is a historic moment for His Majesty the King. There he is, the first-ever reigning King to step foot on Australian soil.”
Walker noted that the tour echoes Queen Elizabeth II’s 1954 visit, which also occurred a year after her Coronation.
The correspondent also mentioned that this is King Charles’s first overseas tour since his cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
Despite the medical concerns, the King appears determined to carry out his duties. Walker observed: “Queen Camilla was seen trying to keep dry, but the King seems to be powering on through, not needing an umbrella.”
The royal couple’s treatment of the visit as a priority is evident, with Charles pausing his cancer treatment for the duration of the tour.
The King and Queen touched down in Sydney as they embark on their tour down under
Reuters
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Upon arrival, King Charles and Queen Camilla were greeted by Australian dignitaries, including Governor-General Sam Mostyn and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Cameron Walker noted the significance of Albanese’s presence, stating: “Anthony Albanese, who famously has wanted to become a republic or hold a referendum on becoming a republic.”
However, Walker added that plans for a republic referendum were shelved earlier this year.
Despite potential Republican protests, the King remains focused on his public engagements.
Cameron Walker told GB News that the trip is ‘historic’ for Charles
GB News
Walker reported: “His focus will very much be on his public engagements, he said in a statement in the last hour or so while he was on the flight from Singapore.”
The visit has faced some controversy, with the Australian Republican Movement dubbing it “The Farewell Oz Tour”.
Protests are planned by the anti-monarchy group Republic, led by CEO Graham Smith.
Notably, Australia’s six state premiers will miss a reception for the King and Queen in Canberra on Monday. The tour has been modified on medical advice, with a visit to New Zealand removed from the itinerary.