Danish Royals Continue Historic Australian State Visit with Solemn Ceremonies
Queen Mary and King Frederik X of Denmark are now well advanced in their six-day official state visit to Australia, with Monday morning seeing the royal couple participate in solemn commemorations at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. The Danish monarchs paid their respects to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier within the Hall of Memory, observing a minute's silence during the dignified ceremony.
This appearance followed a welcome reception at Government House on Sunday evening hosted by Australia's Governor-General. The visit, spanning from March 14 to March 19, represents the couple's first journey to Australia since ascending the Danish throne in 2024, and marks Denmark's first official state visit to the nation in over forty years.
Queen Mary's Signature Style on Display
For the memorial occasion, Queen Mary, aged 54, selected one of her signature color choices—navy blue—wearing a sophisticated high-neck dress featuring long sleeves with a hemline that gracefully skimmed her shins. She complemented this elegant ensemble with a silver brooch, striking snakeskin stiletto heels, and a matching blue netted headband that swept her brunette hair neatly back.
This polished appearance contrasted with the flowing, semi-sheer floral gown and grey-blue fascinator she had worn during the previous evening's reception. For both public engagements, however, the Queen maintained a clean makeup palette with a soft pink lip color.
The Tasmanian-born royal appeared completely at ease on Australian soil, smiling warmly as she greeted well-wishers while navigating a demanding schedule of official duties that included meetings with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Parliament House.
Emotional Undercurrents Beneath the Royal Surface
While Queen Mary presents a composed and confident demeanor during this historic return to her homeland, royal etiquette expert Jo Hayes suggests there may be deeper emotional currents flowing beneath the polished exterior. Despite the excitement surrounding the tour—which includes stops at Uluru, Canberra, Melbourne, and Hobart—one significant presence remains quietly in the background.
Mary's beloved father, John Donaldson, whom she plans to visit at the conclusion of her trip, is understood to be in declining health at age 84. This context has prompted questions among Australian observers watching the tour unfold: Is the Queen distracted? Does she seem slightly different than expected? Or is she simply performing the role she has spent decades preparing for?
According to Hayes, what many Australians are noticing contains elements of truth, but there are additional factors at play behind the scenes. "As an etiquette expert and regular royal commentator, I keep very close tabs on Queen Mary's royal appointments and appearances in Europe. As such, I've become very accustomed to her body language and behavior," Hayes explained.
"There's no doubt her father's declining health is on her mind—he's 84 and in a 'frail' condition according to reports. And as she doesn't get to spend much time with him, she's no doubt eager to see him at the end of this official visit."
The Transformation of a Royal Figure
Hayes noted that many Australians primarily engage with Mary's public appearances only when she returns home, meaning the public is now witnessing a version of her that has been carefully shaped by twenty-five years within one of Europe's oldest monarchies.
"As much as Australia loves her, most Aussies don't pay much attention to what she's up to until she's back here in Australia," Hayes elaborated. "And on her rare official visits we often don't see too much of her or hear her speak. So what we've seen in these first couple of days of this official state visit—her first as Queen of Denmark—is arguably the most we've ever seen of her here."
Hayes suggested that Mary's behavior might therefore surprise some Australians who remember the Tasmanian-born marketing executive who famously met Frederik at a Sydney pub during the 2000 Olympics. "She's warm and friendly, absolutely. But she behaves as she should—as royalty," Hayes observed.
"She holds herself beautifully. Back straight, chin up, walking gracefully and confidently wherever she goes—whether she's bushwalking in boots at Uluru swatting flies, or glammed up for the state dinner at Parliament House. She's honed this deportment over the past 25 years and it sets her apart from the more relaxed Aussie vibe most of us are used to here—even from our politicians and other 'important people.'"
Royal Protocol and Public Demeanor
That same restraint also explains why Mary and Frederik may appear somewhat formal with one another during public engagements. "Royal couples typically have a rule of restraining overly familiar body language in public," Hayes noted. "They rarely hold hands or show overt affection because it helps separate their public roles from their private life. So, if anyone is questioning Mary's behavior towards Frederik, it's completely consistent with royal protocol."
Despite the formal tone characterizing many engagements, Hayes believes Mary is genuinely pleased to be back in Australia visiting old friends and family members. After already experiencing Uluru and Canberra, the royal couple will proceed to Sydney, followed by Melbourne, and finally conclude their whirlwind tour in Hobart.
The Danish royals arrived in Perth on Friday afternoon to commence their packed itinerary, appearing in high spirits as they embarked on their Australian journey. On Saturday, they enjoyed a sunset tour of the iconic landmark Uluru, blending cultural appreciation with their official duties during this significant diplomatic mission.
