Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, died peacefully overnight at Balmoral, her Scottish residence, at the age of 96.
The world reeled in shock when the announcement was made at Buckingham Palace at 3:30am AEST that the Queen, a seemingly eternal figure and symbol throughout the Commonwealth, had passed away.
Alessandro Rosini, spokesperson for the Australian Monarchist League, said for most Commonwealth residents across the world there had only ever been one Queen.
“My family migrated to Australia in the 1950s and 60s from Greece and Italy, so for my grandparents, my parents, and myself as a young Australian she was the only monarch we’ve ever known,” Mr Rosini said.
“The Queen and our system represents something greater than politics. For 14 realms across the world today, we’re losing our head of state. It’s of a magnitude so great, quite a massive historical change.”
Mr Rosini said the Queen embodied selfless dedication and had played a pre-eminent role in shaping Australia.
“If I could sum up her reign in three words, it would be ‘duty before self’,” he said.
“In South Africa when she was 21 she said, “I declare before you all my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service”. And she held true to that right through to the day she died.
“When I reflect on her reign and the impact she had, particularly as Queen of Australia, she brought stability, continuity and continued democratic government. The Queen played a massive role, and as a young Australian and someone who admired her, I’m devastated.”
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Peter Murrihy laid the first floral tribute on the steps of City Hall on Friday morning, and encouraged the public to do the same and sign the condolence book at the City’s Customer Service Centres and libraries.
“On behalf of the Council and the City of Greater Geelong, I offer my condolences to those mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” Mayor Murrihy said in a statement.
“Our deepest sympathies go to His Majesty King Charles III and other members of the Royal Family, and to the people of the United Kingdom and elsewhere affected by this news. Over a remarkable reign spanning seven decades, Queen Elizabeth II became a lasting symbol of service, wisdom, and dedication.
“During 16 tours of Australia – including 11 visits to Victoria – she captured our hearts with
two memorable stops in Geelong. Firstly, in 1954, and then for the country’s bicentenary celebrations in 1988.
“Her joy – and the joy she gave to others – is on show for all as she opened one of our cultural institutions, the National Wool Museum. Her passing caps an extraordinary era, but the influence of her leadership will continue on. A beautiful life well lived. May she rest in peace.”
The City’s flags will fly at half-mast until further notice, in line with protocol, at City Hall, Geelong West Town Hall, the Geelong Waterfront and Corio.
