Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese’s reveals gift to Queen Mary ahead of coronation
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced an unusual, yet significant, gift to Denmark’s new king and queen.
A $10,000 donation will be made by the federal government to help save the Tasmanian devil from extinction in honour of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary’s proclamation as the King and Queen of Denmark.
On behalf of the Australian people, Mr Albanese announced the endowment to Wildcare Tasmania to support the conservation of the Tasmanian devil, ahead of the proclamation on Sunday night (AEST).
Following the abdication of Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II — the longest-serving monarch in Europe — Crown Prince Frederik will ascend to the throne as King, while his wife, Tasmanian-born Crown Princess Mary will serve as Queen Consort.
Mr Albanese said the donation was a fitting contribution given Crown Princess Mary grew up in Tasmania.
“The story of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark is one Australians have followed closely and hold dear to their hearts,” Mr Albanese said.
“Australia and Denmark’s close ties go beyond this union, with our nations sharing a commitment to democratic values, human rights, action on climate change and liberal trade.
“On behalf of all Australians, I wish Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark the very best.”
Non-profit organisation Wildcare Tasmania works to protect the state’s wildlife, natural habitat and places of cultural heritage.
Chief executive Jill Maxwell, said the organisation was honoured to receive the contribution which would help continue the important work of saving the endangered species.
“At a global level, the Tasmanian devil really is representative of our magnificent wilderness and wildlife,” she said.
“What a wonderful way to celebrate Queen Mary and the coronation, by contributing to help us save our tenacious marsupial that is so synonymous with our state.”
Populations of Tasmanian devils has declined markedly since 1996 due to a contagious cancer known as devil facial tumour disease.