King Frederik of Denmark delivered a rare personal speech during a State Banquet in Canberra, expressing his gratitude to Queen Mary for leaving her homeland to build a life with him. The couple is on their first official visit to Australia since ascending the throne in 2024.
Recalling their first meeting at the Slip Inn pub during the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the King said, 'For me, Australia has held a very special place in my heart ever since I slipped into that bar and lost it in a conversation that has never ended.' He added, 'Mary, you had the courage to leave your beloved home and build a new one with me as far away as one can possibly go. For that, I will be forever grateful.'
The King also referenced the tragic Bondi Beach attack on 14 December, which killed 15 people and injured 40. 'At the time, Mary and I sent our condolences from afar. It means a great deal to us to be able to convey our deepest sympathy here in Australia,' he said.
Queen Mary wore the Ole Lynggaard Brooch in her hair, a diamond-studded gold leaf heirloom often used in place of a tiara at formal events. The six-day visit, from 14 to 19 March, includes stops at Uluru, Canberra, and Hobart, where Mary spent much of her childhood.
The royal couple will also observe Danish contributions to renewable energy in Australia and battery-electric ferries in Tasmania.
