An honour guard of lifesavers greet the Queen and Prince Phillip, 1954

An honour guard of lifesavers greet the Queen and Prince Phillip, 1954

On 20 November 2007 the Queen and Prince Philip celebrate 60 years of marriage. Their marriage was a time of great rejoicing for many around the world, including in Australia.

Australia's fascination with the young Queen was apparent when she and Prince Philip made a two-month visit to Australia in early 1954. Coming soon after her coronation in 1953, the visit was the first made by a reigning monarch to our shores. Almost three-quarters of the Australian population made the effort to see her at least once during her stay.

The Queen and Prince Philip arrived to a Sydney summer in February 1954. One of their many engagements was this event at Bondi Beach, captured on film by photographers from the Australian News and Information Bureau (CA 219).

You can see more photos of the 1954 royal visit in series A1773. Simply go to PhotoSearch and search for 'A1773' as 'series number'.

We have also published a research guide on records relating to the British monarchy held by the National Archives in Canberra. Royalty and Australian Society is available to download for free or to purchase in our online shop.

 

More information about this record is available in the National Archives RecordSearch database. The link below takes you into the database.

A1773, RV164

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