South Australians gathered in waves this afternoon to witness a significant moment in history.
As the passing of Queen Elizabeth II marks the end of an era, the proclamation of His Majesty King Charles III signifies the next chapter for Britain and the commonwealth nations, including Australia.
Jess Adamson opened the ceremony to welcome the Governor of South Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, as well as Premier Peter Malinauskas and the South Australian Police band, which paraded down North Terrace with pride.
As Jess Adamson and Premier Peter Malinauskas shared their opening remarks, the significance of the occasion was felt amongst the crowds.
“For 70 years, Her Majesty served the commonwealth with an unfailing commitment and devotion to duty. Her Majesty served South Australia dutifully, with dignity and through significant eras of social change,” said Ms Adamson.
“The Queen visited South Australia seven times during her reign, with her final visit occurring in 2002. Yesterday in London, the Accession Council met at St James’ Palace to officially proclaim the death of Queen Elizabeth II and formally proclaim King Charles III.
“At 12 noon today AEST, the Governor-General of Australia at Parliament House, Canberra, announced the proclamation of the Accession of His Majesty the King Charles III by the grace of God, King of Australia, and other realms and territories.”
Proclamations such as the one held today are long-standing traditions and ceremonial occasions which formally announce the death of the Monarch and proclaim the succession of a new Sovereign.
Today’s proceedings were held in the same spot that the 23rd Governor of South Australia, Lieutenant-General Willoughby Norrie, first announced the succession of Queen Elizabeth II in 1952.
At 12pm, flags across the country were returned to full mast and will remain full mast for the remainder of today.
Following Ms Adamson’s remarks, Premier Peter Malinauskas was then welcomed to the lectern to commence the formalities to announce the proclamation.
“Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC has signed the proclamation of King Charles III,” said the Premier.
“To often in this modern age of rapid news and instant gratification, we can become indifferent to history. As I stand here, truly humbled by the size of this crowd, it strikes me that South Australians are not indifferent to the significance of this moment. Nor are they indifferent to the unprecedentedly historical contribution of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“…We don’t definitively know what the future holds for our world during the reign of our new monarch. So as South Australians, we gather today to wish our new King well, as he embarks on his journey of elevated service to the people of the commonwealth.”
After initial formalities, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC was then invited to read the proclamation.
“Whereas, because of the death of our blessed and glorious Queen Elizabeth II, the crown has solely and rightfully come to Prince Charles Phillip Arthur George. We, therefore, Her Excellency The Honourable Frances Jennifer Adamson, companion of the Order of the Australia, Governor in and over the state of South Australia and members of the Executive Council, do now proclaim Prince Charles Phillip Arthur George to be King Charles III by the grace of God, King of Australia, his other realms and territories, head of the commonwealth,” said Her Excellency.
“And, with hearty and humble affection, we promise him faith and obedience. May King Charles III have long and happy years to reign over us. Given at Adelaide 11th day of September 2022 and in the first year of His Majesty’s reign.”
On Tuesday 20 September, the Premier, Leader of the Opposition and other Members of Parliament will deliver messages of condolence in Parliament. Following the messages, Parliament will adjourn and remain suspended for the 14-day observance period.
Should the public wish to pay its respects, Condolence books are being made available for signing at Government House, Adelaide Town Hall, and Elizabeth’s Playford Civic Centre. Government House is also open to the public for tributes and condolences from 7am to 9pm, concluding Thursday 22 September.
To watch the live stream of the proclamation, click here.
