King Charles and Queen Camilla, despite grappling with the King’s cancer diagnosis this year, appeared relaxed during their tour of Australia and Samoa, embracing the rich experiences both countries offer. The significance of any trip to Australia is always noted, especially as it stands as one of the most crucial Commonwealth nations, reports OK!
The King’s inaugural visit since his ascension highlighted his image as a contemporary monarch, keen on reinforcing that the destiny of each nation rests with its people. However, the successful tour experienced a hiccup that likely left the King “disappointed”— the moment Indigenous Australian senator Lidia Thorpe interrupted him post-speech at Parliament House in Canberra.
Such disruptions aren’t unusual on royal tours, as former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond tells OK!: “I think the King would have been a bit disappointed that this particular protest was so public and in his face, but I’m sure he wouldn’t have been surprised. There’s no choice, really, he has to sit through protests like this and then get on with the job in hand.”
Royal expert Jennie weighed in on whether recent events could impact the monarchy’s standing within the Commonwealth or change King Charles and Prince William’s sentiments, stating: “I don’t think it will affect how Charles or William feel, they will always repeat the view, which I think they sincerely hold, that the future of each country lies entirely with its people.”
Although there was a minor hiccup during their visit, the King and Queen experienced many endearing moments, including a heartfelt embrace between the King and an Aboriginal Elder and a cheerful stint at the Sydney Opera House’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. The pair also took part in a community BBQ, where the King stepped into the chef’s shoes, and even had a close encounter with an alpaca who sneezed on him among the crowd.
Following their Australian sojourn, the Royal couple landed in Samoa for the annual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Upon arrival, they were honoured with a traditional ‘Ava ceremony, complete with ceremonial garlands and sipping an Ava concoction from coconut shells.
