My alphabet has two r’s – oops! Never mind…

Who could fail to admire handsome Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, and his beautiful Kate? Or not fall in love with delightful Prince George, a bubbling, squeaking, kicking, bundle of  perfect baby? Or not laugh when he tossed aside his stuffed Bilby gift, in favour of the real thing?

However, it’s drawing a long bow to assume we’re all Royalists. Many of us look forward to a republic one day. We’re told Australia is on the brink of financial disaster, warned to tighten our belts, to help bring that pesky budget back into surplus, with reductions made in all sorts of essential services. Yet, at a time like this, the Government spends millions on another Royal visit? Talk about blood and circuses…

It’s easy to see why the Royal Family wants to maintain ties with the Antipodes. Should things turn sour for them in a future Great Britain, there’ll be a bolt-hole for them in good old OZ – and I’m sure they wouldn’t arrive as ten pound poms.

Despite all the glamour and riches, one feels for this family. Behind the privileges are real humans with heartbreaks and joys. Behind the smiles, lies the tough role of being constantly on show, always doing and saying the right thing, no matter what their inclination. Behind it all, we see a matriarch who rightly deserves admiration for her dignity, perseverance and sense of duty.

It can’t be easy, especially as the Queen grows older. Only rarely have we glimpsed her personal sacrifices and hardships: she’s a professional from her jewelled crown to every Royal fingertip. Elizabeth 2^nd  has  made the Royal Family not only survive, but thrive.