The Queen’s time spent in the NT remembered fondly by the Administrator

As the world mourns Queen Elizabeth’s passing, we look back at the deep and rich connection the longest reigning monarch in British history shared with the NT. Leave your tributes here.

Chief Minster Minister Natasha Fyles formally inked her condolences in silence with the Administrator of the Northern Territory Vicki O’Halloran, commemorating the life of another fellow woman in leadership.

Ms Fyles and Her Honour took a moment to pay homage to Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her 70-year reign by signing a condolences book which will be sent to the Royal Family.

Flanked by the Administrator Vicki and husband Craig O'Halloran, Chief Minister Natasha Fyles signs the official condolence book at Government House to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Picture: Glenn Campbell.

Ms Fyles was the first to sign the condolences book after Mrs O’Halloran while other Territory officials followed closely behind.

Government House will be open to members of the public to express their sympathy from 9am until 1pm Saturday.

Ms Fyles highlighted the Queen’s granting the Northern Territory its self-governance and the five times the monarch visited the Territory in the urban centres and regional areas.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles lays a floral tribute on the Government House lawn to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Picture: Glenn Campbell.

“On behalf of the Territorians, we pay our condolences to the Royal Family and we’ll be observing a number of protocols over the coming days to mark our respect,” Ms Fyles said.

Mrs O’Halloran said she had the “great privilege” of meeting Her Majesty.

“She was very quick to say how much she enjoyed her time here in the Northern Territory, both in the Top End and in Central Australia, and how much she had a great appreciation for our homelands and for Territorians alike,” Mrs O’Halloran said.

As of 3am (ACST) on Friday, the Commonwealth was changed forever with the announcement of the death of one of the world’s most respected women – Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

She died at the age of 96 at her Balmoral Estate in the Scottish Highlands.

Only hours after her death, Territorians began to pay their respects by laying wreaths outside Government House on Friday morning.

Residents remember the times she visited the Territory for significant events over the years 1963, 1974, 1977, 1982 and 2000.

Mrs O’Halloran welcomed Territorians who wished to express their condolences on the recent passing of Her Majesty were welcome to leave floral tributes on the exterior front lawns of Government House.

Elaine Hellyer lays a floral tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II at NT Government House. Picture: Glenn Campbell

See the gallery below from her visits over the years to Darwin.

The Queen unveils a plaque commemorating the lives lost during Cyclone Tracy during her visit in 1977. Picture: NT News staff photographer.

The Queen pledged “my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service,” and that’s exactly what she did – working right until the end.

The City of Darwin acknowledged the long-reigning sovereign's passing.

“Her Majesty ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe,” the statement read.

“Her extraordinary reign saw her travel more widely than any other monarch, undertaking many historic overseas visits.

“Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she was an important figurehead for Australia and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.

“On her 21st birthday, Her Majesty stated, ‘I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service’.

“She lived a life of exemplary service to Australia and the Commonwealth, and was tireless in her role as the Royal Patron or President to over 600 charities, military associations, professional bodies and public service organisations.”

Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis offered his deepest condolences on behalf of the City of Darwin. Mr Vatskalis also recognised Her Majesty’s close connection to the people of Darwin, particularly after Cyclone Tracy.

“During the Royal visit to Darwin in 1977, Her Majesty graciously unveiled the memorial to the victims of Cyclone Tracy here at the Civic Centre,” he said.

“As she mourned for our losses then, we now join the world in mourning for the loss of this great monarch after her long life of service to our country and the Commonwealth. May she rest in peace.”

Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro said today the world mourned.

“Her Majesty was a courageous, stoic and inspirational leader to millions of people around the globe, and her legacy will be enduring,” she said.

“At just 25 years of age Her Majesty took the reins following her father’s death, and has executed her duty with dignity and grace for over 70 years.

“A great friend to the Territory, many will shed tears of sadness today and reflect on the moments in their life when Her Majesty impacted them most.

“Our sincerest condolences go to the Royal Family.

“May she rest in eternal peace.

“Long live The King.”

Alice Springs Town Council Mayor Matt Paterson offered condolence on behalf of the Red Centre.

“Her Majesty was a figure that meant so much to so many people, truly capturing the hearts of people across the Commonwealth,” he said.

“Like most, I do not know a world without Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“Her Majesty devoted her life to a selfless service to the Commonwealth across 70 years.

“The impact The Queen has had on Australia and the entire Commonwealth is immeasurable.

“She will be missed.”

Palmerston City mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell extended her condolences commending Queen Elizabeth on her steadfast commitment to the Commonwealth.

“I am saddened to hear of Her Majesty’s passing after reigning for 70 years,” Ms Pascoe-Bell said.

“Queen Elizabeth was one of a kind with a unique sense of humour, and a steadfast commitment to her duty and service.

“Her Majesty visited the Northern Territory on multiple occasions and the loss will be felt by us all.”