The Editor’s Desk

King Charles III's official reign has begun in spectacular fashion, with a Coronation fit for the 21st century. That was witnessed by world leaders and royal watchers across the globe, it was a blend of historical significance, extraordinary protocols, and a hint of drama with simmering family tensions in the House of Windsor.

He knew his destiny at age four, standing beside his newly-crowned mother on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. On Saturday, 70 years on – and with his late mother’s crown on his head – King Charles III took his place in history as the 74-year-old was officially crowned monarch to the cheers of “God Save the King”.

With his “darling wife” Queen Camilla by his side, King Charles swore a Coronation oath – to uphold a series of promises sworn in “God’s presence” in a ceremony steeped in pomp and tradition.

Along with historical rituals involving priceless coronation regalia from the crown jewels collection, new music by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber was played, and Australian violin virtuoso Madeleine Easton performed. The centrepiece of the ceremony – which was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby – was the crowning of the King, using the St Edward’s crown, which weighs 2.23kg and is decorated with 444 precious stones. It came after he was anointed behind a private screen, in the most sacred part of the process, and fitted with a new ceremonial robe.

Shame on you, ABC for their coverage by Stan Grant, being accused of bagging the ‘Living daylights out of the monarchy’ by having a discussion about the colonisation of Australia and shame on the Sydney Opera House for not turning the lights on. The harbour must have been dark that night.

Steven Paull JP (Qual) President