3 Feb 1954
On 3 February 1954, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh arrived in Australia as part of their royal tour of the Commonwealth. The tour was the first such tour of Australia undertaken by a reigning British monarch. In just 58 days they visited every state and territory – including all seven capital cities and 70 towns.
At RAAF Base Fairbairn Her Majesty inspected a RAAF guard of honour which was accompanied by the Central Band. At RAAF Base Point Cook Her Majesty inspected static aircraft and enjoyed afternoon tea at the officers mess with RAAF personnel.
Other RAAF bases around Australia supported the Queen’s visit by participating in local parades and lining streets along the routes taken by the royal party.
Throughout her reign, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip maintained close ties with the RAAF. Generations of RAAF personnel have supported her visits to Australia, including providing air transport and being on parade. To read more see The Queen and the RAAF.
Related base
- RAAF Base Wagga