Prince of Wales' visit
- Forging the Nation: home
- Federation
- National identity
- Seeking security
- The First World War
- Towards the future
- Australians
- Introduction
- A changing nation
- England to Australia by air
- Prince of Wales' visit
In 1920 the Prince of Wales visited Australia to thank the nation officially for its contribution to the war. He toured extensively. Wherever he went public holidays were declared, receptions and balls held, foundation stones laid and memorials unveiled. The prince made a point of meeting ex-servicemen and women. His popularity illustrates the complexity of Australia's self-awareness at the time.
"The dear boy - he shan't mix with such people; he shall only reach them over our bodies."
From The Bulletin 10 June 1920, pg 10. Collection of the Australian War Memorial.
Arthur Streeton First World War official war artist
HMS Renown, Sydney Harbour
oil on canvas
painted in London 1922
The Prince of Wales visited Australia in 1920 on the battle cruiser HMS Renown. The Australian artist Arthur Streeton painted the warship and the excited spectators in Sydney Harbour. The Prince's staff included Lord Louis Mountbatten.