The Queen has delivered a heartwarming message of support to the thousands of Australians affected by the recent devastating bushfires in New South Wales and Queensland.
Over the past few months, dozens of homes have been destroyed as fires raged across the eastern states, in one of the worst bushfire seasons on record, claiming the lives of two people.
The fires have devastated local communities, so as the head of the monarchy and in support of one of her oldest Commonwealth countries, Queen Elizabeth has issued a statement with a special message to Australians affected by the tragedy.
She sent the text of condolence to the Governors of New South Wales and Queensland following the recent fires.
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The Queen greets royal fans during a visit to Sydney in 2006.
(Credit: Getty)“Her Majesty The Queen has sent the following message of condolence to the Governors and people of New South Wales and Queensland,” the message began.
“Prince Philip and I have been deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of life and property caused by bushfires affecting communities and businesses across northern New South Wales and South East Queensland,” the Queen wrote, before praising Australians for coming together in the wake of the tragedy.
“I am heartened that once again the richness of spirit that defines Australians has drawn people together to support those in need.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the victims.”
The Queen with Prince Philip (left) visiting the Rainforest Walk in Brisbane and former Queensland Premier Anna Bligh.
(Credit: Getty)
The Queen has sent a heartwarming message of support to Australians affected by the recent bushfires.
(Credit: Getty)The Queen then signed off the official letter with “Elizabeth R”.
The “R” at the end of the Queen’s signature stands for “Regina”, which means “queen”.
Regina is not one of the Queen’s middle names – her full name is Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Winsdor.
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The Queen has visited Australia many times throughout her long reign.
She first visited in 1954, just two years after she was sworn in as the monarchy, and again several times throughout each decade of the 1990s.
Her most recent visit was in 2011 for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), hosted at the time by Australia’s then-Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
