Snipers spotted in plain view at Sydney Opera House during King Charles, Camilla visit

Aussies hanging for a glimpse of the King were given a stark reminder of what life is like as a royal, perched on the roof of an Australian icon.

The dazzling arrival of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Sydney’s Circular Quay was met with a wave of excitement as thousands of onlookers gathered to witness the royal spectacle.

But amid the pomp and pageantry, a stark reminder of what life is like as a royal was on full display for onlookers.

One local captured a video of police snipers perched on the roof of the Opera House and a nearby business building.

“I’ve never seen this before in our country,” they commented in the video shared to TikTok.

In Sydney, snipers have been deployed during high-profile visits and critical incidents, most notably during the 2014 Lindt Café siege. The event highlighted the tactical role of snipers in hostage situations, where they monitored and potentially targeted threats.

Snipers are typically part of a broader security strategy for significant visitors, enhancing safety and countering potential threats.

One local captured a video of police snipers perched on the roof of the Opera House and a nearby business building.

Snipers are typically part of a broader security strategy for significant visitors, enhancing safety and countering potential threats.

King Charles was actually shot at during a previous visit to Australia in 1994.

The then-Prince of Wales stepped up to the podium to deliver an Australia Day speech at Sydney’s Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour when. University student David Kang had jumped a small fence and ran towards the royal, firing blanks from a starting pistol.

Chaos ensued as Kang was tackled by police, letting off one last shot amid the flurry of limbs.

Charles was uninjured in the ordeal.

University student David Kang had jumped a small fence and ran towards the royal, firing blanks from a starting pistol.

Aussies turn up for royals

With an estimated 10,000 people packing the Opera House forecourt and lining the streets, Sydney Harbour shimmered under a cloudless sky as Navy helicopters circled above, flying a massive Australian flag.

The cheers grew louder when a police helicopter swooped closer, signalling the arrival of the King and Queen. The royal motorcade slowly rolled into view, with Charles and Camilla smiling and waving at the adoring crowd.

At the Opera House steps, NSW Premier Chris Minns and his wife Anna warmly welcomed the royals. As they ascended the famous stairs, crowds at the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens roared with approval.

The couple was met by a group of special guests at the top of the steps, including British actor Dame Joanna Lumley, who greeted the royals with a “Your Majesty.”

As they descended the steps, the royals waved with both hands, which delighted the enthusiastic crowd.

“Welcome to Australia,” a voice called out.

One woman, overwhelmed by the moment, even burst into tears after meeting Queen Camilla. Children, too, found themselves in unforgettable moments as Camilla knelt down to their height, sharing in their excitement.

For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “It’s lovely to meet you, Your Majesty,” one man said as he shook King Charles’ hand, summing up the sentiments of a crowd swept up in royal fever.