King Charles III Begins Australian Tour
King Charles III made his first official public appearance in Australia as he embarked on a tour of the country, giving antipodean admirers a glimpse of their reigning monarch.
Arrival and Low Profile
- The 75-year-old monarch arrived in Sydney on Friday evening.
- He had kept a low profile as he balances cancer recovery with royal duties.
Sunday Morning Service
His first official public appearance was at a Sunday morning service at St Thomas’ Anglican Church in northern Sydney.
Significance of Location
- The church was built as a place of worship for British colonial settlers.
- Prominent British colonists, including Edward Wollstonecraft, are buried in the church’s graveyard nearby.
Public Reaction
Lynton Martin, a 22-year-old admirer, drove nine hours from Melbourne to catch a glimpse of the royals.
Upcoming Events
- Charles will address the New South Wales state parliament.
- He will also have closed-door meetings at Admiralty House, the Sydney residence of Australia’s governor-general.
- On Monday, he will be in Canberra with Queen Camilla for more engagements.
Royal Tour Highlights
- This tour is Charles’ first major foreign visit since his coronation.
- The schedule has been scaled back due to his health concerns.
- There will be fewer public gatherings compared to past royal visits.
Public Reception
Some protesters gathered near the church, advocating for the decolonization of Australia.
Public Opinion
Australians, while slightly in favor of the monarchy, are not as enthusiastic as they were in past royal visits.
Overall, King Charles III’s tour of Australia marks a significant moment for both the monarch and the country, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity in a changing world.