Our two greatest, and most photogenic, exports have combined for the first time with Mary, Queen of Denmark, visiting Uluru.
Together with her husband, King Frederik, the girl from Tassie has arrived “home” for the first time since becoming Queen of the small Nordic nation.
One that could fit into the Northern Territory 31 times.
The royal couple, together with a contingent of Danish media and business leaders, arrived – despite the heavy rain and overcast skies – to a throng of fans and sandflies.
The pair recreated royal history by then posing for photos in front of Uluru, 43-years since Princess Diana and then Prince Charles visited the historic site and the images of the ancient landmark were beamed around the world.
It is the first time their majesties have visited Uluru, both were in awe of the size and history of one of the world’s most majestic places.
“It’s been wonderful to learn more about the First Nation’s people and their spirituality, culture and connection to land here,” a glowing Mary told Danish media while wearing a dark grey, Australian-made Akubra.
“It is fantastic to be back in Australia and commence our visit here in Central Australia with this beautiful light,” the King added.
Switching to English, Mary explained “it is absolutely great to be home. We have been so much looking forward to this visit.”
The couple were officially welcomed to country by the traditional owners and elders of the Uluru-Kata Tjuua National Park before cooling down with an iced tea at the Kulata Academy Cafe.
Prior to taking in the sights of the NT late on Saturday, the couple enjoyed a low key visit in Perth which included being hosted by WA Governor Chris Dawson.
“It was an honour and a pleasure to be able to host Their Majesties The King and Queen of Denmark at Government House,” Mr Dawson said.
“Their visit was a memorable occasion, and we were delighted to extend the hospitality of Government House and share with them some of the history and spirit of our State, from our beautiful gardens to a selection of some of Western Australia’s finest food and wine.”
This is their first official visit to Australia since Frederik ascended the Danish throne in January 2024.
The tour – their first together in 13 years – aims to bolster economic ties between Denmark and Australia.
The larger of the two island nations is a significant place for the pair, not just because Mary was born and raised here but, for the fact they met and fell in love during the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
The whistle stop tour will take in sunrise at Uluru on Sunday before heading to Canberra for a state dinner and where they will also mingle with the general public when they visit the Australian War Memorial on Monday morning.
Things will wrap up in Melbourne and Mary’s home town of Hobart later in the week.
Jenna ClarkeCulture Writer