Add Category
There was a packed room in NSW Parliament today at a lunch reception for the king.
A trumpet fanfare announced His Majesty's arrival with everyone standing as the sovereign walked in – all with their phones in the air snatching private photos for their own family albums no doubt.
In his speech the king referred to his last time in this place to celebrate the NSW Legislative Council's 150th anniversary.
Now 50 years later he's here for the bicentenary celebrations.
"It is fascinating, I think, to reflect back to 200 years ago…Those original Council members were, as I understand it, squeezed into the old Government House, not far from here, and then moved into borrowed rooms in this building," he said.
"From that vantage point, regardless of their optimism, it was no doubt impossible to imagine what is now the vast and vibrant state of New South Wales, which has grown and evolved alongside its legislature.
"To everyone who has been a part of this, I can only offer my warmest congratulations."
The king chatted to guests on the way out but didn't stay for the lunch.
He missed out on Barramundi with macadamia crumble and lemon meringue pie.