Darwin remembers the Queen

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II looks up and waves to members of staff of The Foreign and Commonwealth Office as she ends an official visit which is part of her Jubilee celebrations in London. Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and a symbol of stability across much of a turbulent century, died on Thursday, 8 September, 2022. She was 96. Photo: AP Photo/Alastair Grant

It is with great sadness that the City of Darwin acknowledges the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis offered his deepest condolences on behalf of the City of Darwin.

Mr Vatskalis also recognised Her Majesty’s close connection to the people of Darwin, particularly after Cyclone Tracy.

“During the Royal visit to Darwin in 1977, Her Majesty graciously unveiled the memorial to the victims of Cyclone Tracy here at the Civic Centre,” the Mayor said.

“As she mourned for our losses then, we now join the world in mourning for the loss of this great monarch after her long life of service to our country and the Commonwealth. May she rest in peace.”

He said Her Majesty ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe.

The Mayor said her extraordinary reign saw her travel more widely than any other monarch, undertaking many historic overseas visits. Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she was an important figurehead for Australia and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.

On her 21st birthday, Her Majesty stated, “I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service”.

She lived a life of exemplary service to Australia and the Commonwealth, and was tireless in her role as the Royal Patron or President to over 600 charities, military associations, professional bodies and public service organisations.