GENERAL JEFFERY'S LAST CREDENTIALS CEREMONY

22 August 2008

His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery will conduct his final Credentials Ceremony at Government House on Thursday 28 August 2008 commencing at 9.30am.

The credential’s ceremony must take place before the Head of Mission-designate, can formally take up their position as an Ambassador or High Commissioner to Australia.

General Jeffery has received the credentials of 137 Ambassadors and High Commissioners since he was appointed as Governor-General in 2003.

On Thursday four Heads of Mission will present their credentials. Included amongst these is His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Tupouto'a-Lavaka of the Kingdom of Tonga. He will be Tonga's first High Commissioner to Australia.

Traditionally these ceremonies are closed to the media, however, as this is General Jeffery’s last Credentials Ceremony, and given the attendance by the Crown Prince, a restricted media pool is being arranged to cover the ceremony.

This will comprise 1 x pool camera; and two photographers.

Media interested in being part of the pool should contact:

Carly Lusk
Government House
Tel (02) 6283 3565
Mb. 0417 057 392
Email: carly.lusk@gg.gov.au