[Originally published February 2022]
SALE resident Betty Arthur has had plenty of time to reminisce about The Queen’s visit to the region in March 1954.
The 94-year-old can be seen with her daughter Gwen circled in this image from March 20, 1954 in the Gippsland Times.
“That was near the old council chambers,” Ms Arthur said. “We were up on the dais and she was just down below, there was much excitement for me and the kiddies were excited too. I think my daughter Gwen would have been three years old.
“I first came to Sale, I believe, in 1949, but our family has been here since 1905 – oh gosh, if my memory is correct,” she laughed.
Ms Arthur said the Queen’s visit was the biggest story of the year: “There was a massive crowd, everybody turned out. We didn’t get to meet or speak with the Queen, but we were so close,” she said.
“I think she was only in Sale overnight, I think she was passing through.”
Living in her Motor Village unit, Ms Arthur to this day continues to be interested in what Queen Elizabeth and the royal family are up to.
“I think she’s a lovely person and a lovely personality,” she said. “Things have changed so much over the years. We watched Princess Diana and Prince Charles when they were married, and I remember that wedding.
“I’m not a big fan of Camilla. She was the one that broke up Charles and Diana, which was terrible and very, very upsetting.”
Ms Arthur laughed when asked what she would say to the Queen if she had the opportunity. “I’d congratulate her on her reign, and I think she’s done a wonderful job,” she said. “I admire Prince William and I think Kate is really lovely.”
