Royal Park lived up to its name at the weekend as dozens of residents gathered for a free barbecue, and a portrait of Her Majesty The Queen.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The portraits – and other “Nationhood Documents” – are available through a little known perk of Australian citizenship that allows constituents and organisations to request them from their federal member of parliament.
Booklets on flags and national symbols of Australia, CDs and DVDs of the national anthem and portraits of The Queen with her husband The Duke of Edinburgh are also available.
The event was organised by Bass Labor MHR Ross Hart who relished the opportunity to give something back to local constituents in a more stately setting than a visit to his office.
“We receive a pretty regular line of requests,” he said of the nationhood material.
“Maybe about 60 to 70 a year.”
Mr Hart estimated he gave out 30 items, from portraits to flags, to royal enthusiasts on Saturday.
The program has seen increased uptake in recent months after a string of stories in national media, many of which inspired those present for Saturday’s event to write in their requests.
After seeing one story, Karan Williams decided to write in asking for a portrait of Her Majesty for her grandmother-in-law, Barbara Gourlay, a passionate follower of all things royal.
“We always have to be quiet at Christmas lunch for the Queen’s address,” she added.
“I might have to get it framed for her now.”
The portrait was going to be a birthday surprise for Mrs Gourlay but the plan was foiled while ensuring she would be free to come along to the event.
Regardless, Mrs Gourlay was thrilled by her new print.
“I’ll have to walk around the home a few times to find a spot for it,” she said.
While you're with us, did you know that you can now sign up to receive breaking news updates and daily headlines direct to your inbox. Sign up here.