By Dominique Tassell
Southern Downs Regional Councillors reflected on the lasting impact and legacy that Queen Elizabeth II will leave on the commonwealth, following her passing on 8 September.
Cr Sheryl Windle stated that “the passing of the Queen has had a huge impact on people all over the world, from all walks of life.
“She has been the most respected and admired female figure ever to have influenced myself in my lifetime.
“She was a true majestic lady, who could share humour but still maintain her class when meeting people and fulfilling her duties. She had a wonderful empathy for people, corgis and horses.
“Her leadership skills, and the examples she set, should be mirrored by all those who hold positions of power. If we all lived by the Queen‘s values our world would be a better place.
“I hold her in high esteem and will always remember her.”
Cr Cynthia McDonald stated that “having had the opportunity to represent Australia as a Commander in Australia’s Federation Guard in London, I was honoured to be the First Female Guard Commander during the Ceremonial Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II”
“I was also fortunate to host the then Prince Charles, now King Charles lll, at St James Palace.
“Like most Australians I’m deeply saddened by her passing after 70 years of service as a passionate Female Monarch who balanced her duties and family, as well as her ability to inspire multiple generations
throughout the Commonwealth.”
Cr Jo McNally said that “I, like many people around the world was saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth”.
“She was a woman I admired for her unwavering sense of duty to her country and the Commonwealth.
“She was the epitome of nobility, strength, genuine caring and warmth.
“Her life will be remembered for selfless devotion in serving Britain and the Commonwealth and of course her love and devotion to her family.
“Rest in peace Queen Elizabeth, you lived and served a wonderful life and will be remembered with fondness and love around the world.”
Cr Marco Gliori also mourned the Queen, stating that “Queen Elizabeth II was a popular monarch who I am sure was grateful to have lived a long and prosperous life”.
“Her commendable work ethic and her genuine expressions of empathy were both obvious and admired throughout the world.
“As a Matriarch she appeared to enjoy, a loving, fruitful, and adventurous life, while enduring with dignity, the various controversies and tragedy the Royal Family encountered.
“Personally, we did share a favourite past-time, Thoroughbred Racing, though I am sure we viewed it from vastly different platforms.
“Her amiable character, and sense of humour, set those she met at ease.
“Her respect has been earned, and her passing will be mourned, by so, so many.”
