Frederik X of Denmark delivered a personal tribute to his wife, Mary, Queen of Denmark, during their state visit to Australia. The visit was filled with symbolism for the royal couple.
© UK Press via Getty ImagesQueen Mary is visiting her homeland for her first official state visit since her ascencion in 2024
Australia is an important place for Frederik and Mary. The continent is the Queen’s homeland and the place where their love story began over two decades ago, with the two meeting at the 2000 Olympics before their 2004 wedding.
The royal tour began Saturday with a traditional welcome from First Nations representatives at Uluru, one of Australia’s most emblematic natural landmarks. The couple later watched the sunset from a scenic lookout, surrounded by the park’s dramatic landscape and unique wildlife.
The following day, the King and Queen attended a sunrise viewing before traveling to Canberra for official engagements. They were welcomed by the governor-general at Government House before attending a formal state banquet. During the banquet, King Frederik delivered one of his most heartfelt speeches, reflecting on the connection between Denmark and Australia and the personal journey he shares with his wife.
© Getty ImagesQueen Mary of Denmark and King Frederik X of Denmark posing for photographs at the Roll of Honour during a visit to the Australian War Memorial
“Denmark once had little visibility in Australia,” he saod. “But that changed in 2004, when Mary and I married. Suddenly, Denmark had a crown princess again — and Australians began to learn about the Nordic country ‘up north.’”
Frederik continued by highlighting the long diplomatic relationship between the two nations, which dates back nearly 60 years. Yet, he noted, the bond deepened on a more personal level when the couple married. “For me, Australia has held a special place in my heart ever since I walked into that bar and got lost in a conversation that has never ended,” he said, recalling the night he first met Mary.
He then turned to look at his wife. “Mary, you had the courage to leave your beloved home and build a new life with me as far away as possible. For that, I will always be grateful.” He added that Australia feels like a second home for their family, whether visiting relatives or traveling on official duty.
The King’s love of all things Australia
© IDA MARIE ODGAARDKing Frederik opened up about his bond with the Queen and his connection to Australia
The king also spoke about returning to the country for the first time as reigning monarchs since their accession in 2024, noting the complexity involved in planning such a historic visit. “My Australian family has always made me feel truly welcome,” Frederik said. “They embraced me as one of their own and I embraced everything Australian.” He joked that he has grown fond of cricket and Australian football.
On Monday, the royal couple continued their engagements in Canberra with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial. The tribute honored members of the Australian Armed Forces who have served in conflicts and international missions since the First World War.
After the ceremony, the king and queen briefly greeted members of the public gathered outside the memorial. The pair later met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and visited Parliament House, where they were shown works from the Parliament’s Indigenous Art Collection.
They also opened a conference focused on international cooperation in innovation, prevention strategies, and healthcare solutions involving governments, businesses, and research institutions.
In the coming days, the royal tour continues in Melbourne. King Frederik and Queen Mary are scheduled to visit many destinations and attend numerous events, including an official reception at Government House in Victoria, exploring the redeveloped Prahran district known for sustainable urban projects, a visit to the Port of Melbourne, and participating in an event linked to the Australian Football League at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
© Getty ImagesThe couple will go to different destinations in Australia