Australian Teen: “Oh my God, I just spoke with the Queen!”

As the sun set over Sydney’s iconic Opera House on Tuesday, thousands lined the streets, excited to catch a glimpse of King Charles and Queen Camilla. This vibrant scene provided the perfect backdrop for Buckingham Palace as the royal tour of Australia came to a successful close.

Despite a notable protest in Canberra the previous day, the atmosphere in Sydney was overwhelmingly supportive. Royal aides must have breathed a sigh of relief as they navigated the complexities of this trip, culminating in a heartfelt farewell.

Back in February, the idea of this tour seemed nearly impossible when King Charles was diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment. However, with doctors’ approval, the schedule was adjusted but remained intact. The trip was shortened and engagements were tailored to accommodate the King’s health, avoiding early mornings and late nights.

Still, the royal couple kept a packed itinerary. On Tuesday alone, they visited the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, a food bank, a social housing project, a literacy initiative, and even threw a community barbecue. They also celebrated the Sydney Opera House’s 50th anniversary and reviewed a naval ceremony in Sydney Harbour. Additionally, the launch of the Australian arm of the King’s Foundation was announced, aimed at promoting sustainability and traditional craft skills training.

Each event was a whirlwind of activity, and despite the demands, the King handled the crowds with apparent ease. The challenges of his health were not visible, and he seemed genuinely touched by the warm reception from the public during his first visit as monarch.

The protest in Canberra was indeed a reminder of the mixed sentiments surrounding his role as head of state. Acknowledging the presence of republicans and those advocating for Indigenous rights, the King had arrived aware that such issues would surface.

While republican sentiment exists beneath the surface in Australia, it didn’t manifest significantly during the trip aside from some heckling in Parliament. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a supporter of a republic, accompanied the King and Queen for several events, expressing admiration for his royal guests. “You have shown great respect for Australians, even during times when we have debated the future of our constitutional arrangements and our relationship with the crown. Nothing stands still,” Albanese noted, warmly welcoming the King to Canberra before the disruptions at Parliament.

Outside the Sydney Opera House, crowds joyfully raised their phones, eager to capture this historic moment.