THE DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN AND HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH

20 November 2007

On behalf of the Australian people, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate Your Majesty and Your Royal Highness on sixty years of marriage.

Our nation has been delighted to have welcomed you to our shores on fifteen occasions and with each visit you have both won a special place in our hearts and minds with your keen interest in and affection for Australia.

In this Diamond anniversary year, it is fitting to look back over your remarkable journey together. Your mutual strength and leadership during times of extraordinary social and cultural change have been both an example and a source of stability to us all. You have also withstood public scrutiny and personal tragedy with dignity and grace.

Marlena and I, and the people of Australia, wish Your Majesty and Your Royal Highness continuing good health and happiness, and extend our sincere congratulations to you on this truly auspicious occasion.


(Michael Jeffery)