Australia’s capitol of Canberra is the host of today’s events for the Royal Tour! After a day spent with youth and adolescents in Adelaide, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge scheduled a day of events focused on Australia’s refined culture. The day begins at the National Arboretum, a recent addition to Canberra’s gorgeous landscape. The Royal Couple will plant a ceremonial tree and tour the grounds. Then, the Prime Minister will host a reception at Parliament House for the couple. In the afternoon, William and Catherine will visit the National Portrait Gallery – a personal interest of the Duchess. Finally, their royal highnesses will attend a glittery reception hosted by the Governor General.

National Arboretum

The first event took place at Canberra’s National Arboretum. It was a perfect day to visit the scenic venue, with warm weather and sunshine welcoming the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

William and Catherine planted a tree near the Pod playground. The location was chosen to provide shade in the summer while the children frolic and play.
Their Royal Highnesses appropriately planted an English Oak tree. According to the National Arboretum Website:

“The English Oak was chosen because it is a symbol of England, representing strength and endurance. Its importance to the people of England and to the Royal family has its origins partly in an oak tree which was used as a hiding place for the future King Charles II as he fled from his pursuers during the English Civil War. For over 200 years the King’s birthday was celebrated by wearing a sprig of oak leaves in remembrance of the event.”

Will and Kate also met with 50 lucky members of the public, who won a ballot lottery to meet the royals. Outside the arboretum, crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the Cambridges.

Kate looked lovely in Australia’s signature green color. Her coat dress was designed by Catherine Walker, one of Kate’s and Princess Diana’s favored designers.
The Duchess of Cambridge accessorized very simply. She brought back the beloved LK Bennett Sledge pumps and her emerald drop earrings, so the attention stayed on her gorgeous dress.
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The Prime Minister’s Reception

The second event of the day took the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to Parliament House, where Prime Minister Tony Abbott hosted a reception for Their Royal Highnesses.

Every ounce of marble in the reception room was covered with royal watchers hoping to meet Catherine and William. Many brought gifts and flowers for them.

The Duke gave a short speech at the event, where he thanked the people of Australia for being so warm and welcoming, and mentioned Cheeks’ affections for his wombat toy.
Catherine and William enjoyed canapes as they mingled with an entire room full of people, eager to meet their royal acquaintance.
The Duchess still looked stunning amongst a sea of people in her green Catherine Walker coat dress, electing not the change her ensemble for this event.
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National Portrait Gallery

Immediately following the Prime Minister’s reception, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Australia’s National Portrait Gallery. Given Kate’s affections for art and art history, this was an exciting event for her.

Given her patronage of London’s National Portrait Gallery, this was an event tuned into the interests of the Duchess.
William and Catherine viewed the various portraits and even met with some of the portrait sitters – some of Australia’s most famous faces.
Afterwards, the Duke and Duchess performed a brief walkabout to greet the thousands of people lining the streets to see them.

The Governor-General’s Reception

Much to the delight of Royal Watchers, tonight’s final event was a glammed up reception. The event was hosted by the Governor-General of Australia in honor of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

The reception was the second formal event of the tour, with the first being the reception in Wellington. The event was a sort of farewell to Australia, as this is their penultimate day of their tour. William and Catherine were joined by 100 guests highlighting the rich culture of Australia. Guests included specialists in the arts, sports, business, as well as local youth and charity representatives.

via Twitter

The Duchess of Cambridge dazzled in a Lela Rose creation befitting the occasion. The chic white dress featured circle lace sleeves and peplum detailing. She accessorized with black suede Jimmy Choo “Cosmic” shoes and Mulberry clutch bag, which created a monochromatic contrast to the crisp white. Catherine chose to wear the diamond earrings and bracelet given to her by Prince Charles for her wedding.

via Twitter

To the sounds of cheers and celebration, the Duchess wore her hair in a sleek, elaborate up do.

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