There has been an outpouring of emotion and tributes across the Limestone Coast following the death of Queen Elizabeth II late last week.
The passing of the 96-year-old monarch has captured the attention of the community.
Mount Gambier’s Anglican Church led the way with a touching service on Sunday morning, led by Parish Priest Father Neil Fernando.
Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin was a special guest at the service, where she read a prayer, while Member for Barker Tony Pasin sent a special message which was read to those attending.
The church bell rang 96 times, once for each year of the monarch’s life, while a portrait of the Queen graced the church and a condolence book was available for those attending to sign.
Father Neil said the service was as beautiful way to pay tribute to the head of the Anglican church.
“It went really well, it was a very good response, not just the Anglicans, but people in the community attended too,” he said.
“The children brought flowers and the Sunday School organised flowers and leaves for the people attending.
“She was very true to her calling as a Queen, a leader and also as a Christian, that’s what strikes us very much, that is what I was trying to reflect about her faith.
“The service was a mixture of joy and sorrow, there was sorrow for losing her and joy for her achievements, she meant a lot to all of us, not only the people of the UK, it gave us an opportunity to show other sentiments and solidarity with the Royal Family and the people of the UK as we offered prayers for them as well, not just as an Anglican church but also as a community of Mount Gambier, the queen had a special place in her heart for us.”
Father Neil said some of those in attendance had witnessed the Queen’s visit to Mount Gambier, and many stories were shared during and after the service.
Father Neil also led a second commemorative service at St Luke’s church at Mt Schank later on Sunday morning.
In other tributes, flags at various locations across the region flew at half mast, while tourist attractions were bathed in a royal purple light.
A minute’s silence was also observed at several sporting events in way of tribute, while many households left their porch lights on as a sign of remembrance.
Condolence books have been placed at civic locations for community members to sign.
On September 20 the Premier, Leader of the Opposition and other Members of Parliament will deliver messages of condolence in Parliament.
Following the messages, Parliament the death of Queen Elizabeth II will adjourn and remain suspended for the 14-day observance period.
Condolence books are being made available for signing at Government House, Adelaide Town Hall, Playford Civic Centre in the City of Elizabeth and electorate offices across the state.
Virtual condolence messages can also be posted online at www.dpc.sa.gov.au/observances with more information available at the website.
The Prime Minister has also announced that a one-off national public holiday will be held on September 22 to allow people to pay their respects.
