Meghan Markle's Lucrative Sydney Appearance Amid Taxpayer Controversy
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, spent just over two hours at a high-end women's retreat in Sydney, where attendees paid up to £1,700 each for the opportunity to meet her, ask questions, and take photographs. According to reports, Meghan is set to earn approximately £130,000 from her participation in the "Her Best Life" event, which took place on the final day of her Australian tour with Prince Harry.
Security and Scrutiny Surround Commercial Event
Guests began arriving at the five-star InterContinental Coogee hotel in Sydney's eastern suburbs from 3pm, with enhanced security checks in place. The official event commenced at 5pm, and Meghan departed with Prince Harry shortly after 7pm, traveling in a 4x4 vehicle accompanied by private bodyguards. Security was notably heightened, with plainclothes and uniformed New South Wales Police officers, supported by a dog squad, present at the venue. A nearby vehicle suggested counter-terrorism officers were also involved, amid ongoing debates in Australia over whether taxpayers should fund security for the Sussexes' visit.
Emotional Encounters with Bondi Attack Survivors
Earlier in the day, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex visited Bondi Beach, where they met and hugged survivors of the December 2025 terrorist attack. Meghan appeared deeply moved as she spoke with Jessica Chapnik Kahn, who survived the attack while shielding her five-year-old daughter. Kahn described the meeting as an "honour," emphasizing the importance of addressing hate as a global issue. The couple also examined artefacts at the Sydney Jewish Museum, including messages and illustrations from the public, curated to memorialize the victims and heroes of the attack.
Rugby Match and Lighthearted Moments
After leaving the retreat, the Sussexes attended a Super Rugby match between the NSW Waratahs and Moana Pasifika at Allianz Stadium. They sat in the VIP section, where Meghan was seen smiling and placing her hand on Harry's knee. The couple's departure from the hotel was briefly interrupted by a young Australian man who attempted to engage Harry in a "shoey" tradition, but he was swiftly moved away by police.
Invictus Australia and Harbour Sailing
On their final day in Sydney, Harry and Meghan participated in an Invictus Australia event, sailing around Sydney Harbour after a police escort. They posed for selfies with fans at the Sydney Opera House and received custom-made flip-flops inscribed with "G'day Hazza" and "G'day Megs." The couple also danced with a four-year-old girl and met veterans, highlighting the organization's support for military personnel through sport.
Public and Media Reactions
The tour has drawn significant media attention, with photographers capturing the couple's every move. Harry was seen moving a camera crew away when they came too close to Meghan, reflecting the intense scrutiny of their visit. Despite this, the Sussexes appeared relaxed during public engagements, such as walking barefoot on Bondi Beach and interacting with lifeguards.
The "Her Best Life" retreat continued without Meghan after her departure, with guests enjoying a gala evening and weekend relaxation at the hotel. The event's organizer, Gemma O'Neill, was pictured arriving, while staff and security prepared extensively for the Duchess's appearance.
This visit marks the Sussexes' return to Australia since the 2018 Invictus Games, with future games scheduled for Birmingham in 2027. The tour has blended commercial ventures with charitable engagements, sparking discussions about funding and security in the Australian public sphere.
