Danish Royals Begin Australian State Visit at Uluru

Uluru, Australia – King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark have commenced their six-day state visit to Australia with a visit to Uluru, marking the first royal tour of Australia in 40 years. The visit aims to strengthen ties between the two nations, particularly in the realm of renewable energy.

A Warm Welcome at the Cultural Centre

The Danish royals arrived at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre on Saturday, where they were greeted by traditional owners, the Aṉangu people. They were honored with a traditional inma, a ceremonial dance integral to Aṉangu culture, and met with trainees from the National Indigenous Training Academy. ABC News reports that Queen Mary expressed her delight at being back in Australia, stating, “To start the visit here in the centre of Australia is quite something, to experience Uluru for the first time and to meet with the Anangu…it’s been a really great start to what will be an exciting visit here.”

Sunrise at Muṯitjulu Waterhole and Ceremonial Welcome in Canberra

The royal couple spent Sunday morning at Muṯitjulu Waterhole, a significant site and one of the few permanent water sources around Uluru. The New Daily notes the site has previously welcomed dignitaries such as Princess Diana and Prince Charles in 1983, and the Dalai Lama in 2015. Later, in Canberra, King Frederik and Queen Mary were welcomed with a 21-gun salute at Government House, hosted by Governor-General Sam Mostyn. PerthNow reports the couple signed the visitors’ book and inspected the Guard of Honour.

Strengthening Trade and Renewable Energy Ties

This state visit, the first in 40 years, is not solely ceremonial. A delegation of over 50 Danish companies, specializing in renewable energy, offshore wind, and energy-efficient urban development, accompanies the royals. The focus is on bolstering trade relations between Australia and Denmark, particularly in the clean energy sector. The New Daily highlights the importance of this business aspect of the tour.

A Personal Journey for Queen Mary

The trip holds particular significance for Queen Mary, who was born in Tasmania. This marks her fourth official visit to Australia as a Danish royal, and the first since she and King Frederik were crowned in January 2024. The couple’s visit will too include stops in Melbourne and Hobart, potentially allowing Queen Mary to spend time with family in Tasmania. PerthNow notes the couple enjoyed a brief overnight stay in Perth before traveling to Uluru.

The Danish royals’ tour is expected to continue, fostering stronger diplomatic and economic ties between Denmark, and Australia.