King Charles III has sent Territorians a message marking the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy.
At today's commemoration ceremony, His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie AO PSM, Administrator of the Northern Territory read the message on behalf of The King and presented a framed copy of the statement to the Lord Mayor of Darwin, the Honourable Kon Vatskalis.
The message reads:
"As you gather today to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Cyclone Tracy, I want you to know that you are all in my special thoughts at this time of remembrance and reflection. I well remember visiting Darwin shortly after that fateful storm and being greatly moved by the utterly determined resilience of its inhabitants.
"Across Australia and around the world we look back on that fateful Christmas Eve of 1974, a day which remains ingrained in our collective memory, not only for the devastation brought by Cyclone Tracy but for the extraordinary strength shown by Territorians in their fortitude and determination to rebuild. From the ruins of a catastrophic cyclone came a remarkable demonstration of renewal and perseverance through unwavering solidarity, serving as a powerful reminder of the Australian spirit.
"Throughout my visits to Darwin I have, with the greatest sense of admiration, witnessed its resurrection as the vibrant capital city of a proud and indefatigable region. On this poignant anniversary, my wife and I send our warmest wishes and hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future to you all."
- Charles R.
The message has been published in full in the NT News and online at govhouse.nt.gov.au.
A framed copy will be held in Government House.
Quotes from His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie AO PSM, Administrator of the Northern Territory
"His Majesty's words remind us of how far we have come since Cyclone Tracy, and of the extraordinary spirit that defines Territorians. On this important anniversary, we honour the memory of those who endured this tragedy, celebrate the resilience of our people, and reaffirm our commitment to continuing to build a stronger and united Territory.
"As the Administrator of the Northern Territory I extend my gratitude to His Majesty for his heartfelt message and join all Territorians in reflecting on the significance of this milestone."
