ANU pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

The Australian National University (ANU) joins Australians across the country in mourning the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The passing of Australia’s Head of State brings to an end a reign that was remarkable for its longevity, dignity and service. We pay tribute to the Queen’s 70 years of service to our nation and the Commonwealth.

ANU was in its sixth year when Queen Elizabeth’s reign began in 1952. Her first Australian prime minister was Robert Menzies, and there have been 15 prime ministers in the decades since.

It was Menzies who accompanied the Queen during her visit to the ANU campus when Her Majesty opened the RG Menzies Library in March 1963.

During her speech on that day, the Queen said “other capital cities may claim to be centres of transport or commerce or military strongholds, but let Canberra’s pride be scholarship”. Her far-sighted prediction has been fulfilled.

We send our condolences to the Queen’s family, and all those around Australia and the world who are mourning.