In stark contrast to the fanfare that usually accompanies royal visits to our shores, a certain Prince has managed to fy in under the radar.
Her Majesty’s youngest son, Prince Edward, is set to visit Wollongong tomorrow to participate in the 60th Anniversary of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award – Australia.
It’s the second time in as many years the coastal city in New South Wales has hosted royalty.
Peter Kaye AM, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award – Australia, said Prince Edward will attend a total of 25 engagements during his five-day Australian trip.
"The Earl is here to celebrate and recognise the achievements of those who have completed their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards and to congratulate them on their hard work, determination and willpower," Mr Kaye said.
Prince Edward will meet with Award participants during a special event at the Wollongong Youth Centre and with representatives from Surf Life Saving Illawarra (SLSI) at North Beach.
"It will be a great opportunity for our 14 to 24-year-old surf lifesavers, some of who were introduced to surf lifesaving through volunteer participation in the Duke of Edinburgh award, to meet and discuss their experiences with His Royal Highness," said SLSI President Peter Evert.
Known for opting for a private approach to his royal duties as well as private life, it’s not unlike the earl to have evaded our notice until now.
Though doubtless the understated Prince Edward will be met with the traditional fanfare a royal visit deserves over the course of his stay.