TRIBUTES across the Sunshine Coast are flowing following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II early this morning. Residents looking for ways to pay their own tribute are being encouraged to do so via the official state condolence book.
Messages of condolence and support for the Royal family on the passing of Her Majesty can be conveyed via the official State of Queensland Condolence Book, which was at www.qld.gov.au
As the world gives thanks for her life of service, Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson said many people were looking for a way they could honour The Queen, who the world lost today, aged 96.
“Buckingham Palace has indicated that online ‘Messages of Support and Condolence are preferred over the use of physical condolence books,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“The messages of support and condolence provided to the State of Queensland Condolence Book will be collated and forwarded via Government House Queensland to Buckingham Palace.”
“Many of us will remember with great fondness her visit to the Sunshine Coast in 2002 to open the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting,’’ he said.
Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace, said it was a very sad day.
“The Queen served the Commonwealth for 70 years – the longest serving British Monarch and second in history to the 72-year reign by Louis XIV of France,” he said.
“A truly remarkable, selfless woman. It is true to say, she is absolutely irreplaceable.
“She has shown great determination and strength through difficult times – both personally and in her capacity as Monarch.
“In June 1953, she was officially crowned Queen of England. During her reign, she was Australia’s head of State during the service of 16 Australian Prime Ministers and 16 Governors-General of Australia.
“The Queen visited Australia 16 times including opening Parliament House in 1988 and a visit to the Sunshine Coast in March 2002 as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.
“Her shining light set the example for strength, stability, and service in this ever-changing world. Her legacy will be her lifetime of selfless service and leading the Commonwealth with humility and humour.”
Among leaders expressing their condolences was Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albenese, sharing “This is a morning of sadness for the world, for the Commonwealth and all Australians… Australian hearts go out to the people of the United Kingdom who mourn today, knowing they will feel they have lost part of what makes their nation whole.”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk released a statement earlier today, sharing “Her Majesty was a constant reminder of the true meaning of service, integrity and courage, and she was admired around the world, especially here in Queensland.”
To mark the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Australia’s Federation Guard fired a 96-gun salute.
All Commonwealth countries have been invited to fire a 96 round gun salute. This follows the British tradition of firing one round for each year of Her Majesty’s life.