We are witnesses to history on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, after 70 years on the throne.
A most extraordinary lifetime of service.
The abdication of her uncle irrevocably changed her life, and on her accession, she made the most selfless commitment to her subjects in Britain and across the Commonwealth, including Australia.
Her Majesty was an exemplary and stable constant in our lives and in the world; dedicated, dutiful, re-assuring, compassionate, knowledgeable and with a profound interest in world events alongside her own domains.
As a woman, she was a global icon. We will not see the like again.
Many of her subjects felt she would be with them forever.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family at this time.
While we reflect of a life well lived, I extend my condolences to King Charles III and to the Royal Family as they grieve the loss of a beloved mother, grand-mother, and great-grandmother.
Ends.
