Queen Camilla experienced a relatable moment on the final day of her and King Charles’ visit to Australia on Tuesday, as her heels became uncomfortable after a busy day of engagements.
The King and Queen were warmly welcomed by thousands of royal fans outside the Sydney Opera House, celebrating the landmark’s 50th anniversary.
After a long day in 25-degree heat, Camilla, 77, was spotted carrying her shoes as she walked up the steps to Admiralty House, the official residence of the Governor General, for their final night in Australia. Their day had started with separate engagements—Camilla visited Refettorio OzHarvest Sydney and Green Square Library before joining Charles for a community barbecue.
The couple also toured the Sydney Opera House and conducted a fleet review of five ships in Sydney Harbour. Although Camilla changed from a cornflower blue dress to a white one during the day, she wore heels throughout and decided to go barefoot while walking up the steps after speaking with the public.
Despite a protest at Parliament House in Canberra earlier in the week, the royal tour was a great success, with both Charles and Camilla appearing moved by the warm reception.
A post on the royal family’s Instagram read: “Farewell Australia. It was a spectacular end to Their Majesties’ visit to Australia at the iconic Sydney Opera House. Thank you to all who came out to show their support—and for so many special memories.”
Now on a four-day state visit to Samoa, King Charles will preside over the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The royal couple were welcomed with a traditional tea ceremony, where Charles was honored as Tui Taumeasina, or King of Taumeasina.
The monarch, who was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February, has paused his treatment while abroad and is expected to resume it upon returning to the UK on 26 October.
