In Pictures: Queen Elizabeth II visited Darling Downs in 1954

Heartfelt tributes have begun flowing for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II after her death was announced early this morning. The Chronicle has taken a look at the 1954 royal visit, when thousands filled the streets to take a glimpse. See the photos here.

The world is in mourning after the heartbreaking passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who has died at aged 96.

The longest-reigning monarch died peacefully at her Scotland home Balmoral early Friday morning with her family by her side.

His Majesty King Charles III said in a statement the passing of his beloved mother was a “moment of great sadness” for him and his family.

“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved mother,” he said.

“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”

Member for Groom Garth Hamilton paid his respects to the monarch and her family during this difficult time.

“A life of service has come to a peaceful end,” he said.

“Her grace and dignity were ever present features of the modern world. Her steady leadership as reliable as the rising sun.

“The Queen was a reminder of all we have come from but also what we each might grow to become. We have all benefited from her example of how to put others needs before our own, how to serve even during times of personal hardship and loss.

“She showed us that while the world may change around us, our basic principles, those of decency and love of our common humanity, need not. Rest In Peace.”

Across the Toowoomba region, residents have expressed their heartfelt condolences across social media, and reminisced on Her Majesty’s visit to the region in 1954.

During her 70-year reign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visited Australia 16 times.

HER HIGHNESS'S ROYAL WAVE: Jack Parker took this photograph of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip when they visited Australia as part of the 1954 Coronation Tour. It was taken as the couple toured James Street, Toowoomba. Photo: Contributed

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip during their 1954 visit to Toowoomba. Picture: supplied.

Crowds line Margaret Street during Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's visit to Toowoomba, Queensland. Way We Were Contributed

News/royal tour 11/3/1954 Queen Elizabeth arrives at Oakey to be met by local officials. Neg/no E 2165 Picture by Norm Lye The Courier-Mail Photo Archive.

Toowoomba's mayor, Alderman Anderson, escorts the official dais Queen Elizabeth for the Queen's welcome at Queen's Park. Following is the Duke of Edinburgh Prince Phillip, Mrs Anderson, Transport Minister Mr J. Duggan and Mrs Duggan.

Photo of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to Toowoomba. On the third of February 1954 the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II. stepped ashore in Sydney becoming the first reigning monarch to visit Australia. Photo Contributed by Rosalie Thun

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip arrive at the Oakey Airport in 1954.

1954 Royal Tour. Queen Elizabeth receives a bouquet at Toowoomba.

Valerie Inwood snapped these photos of decorations across Toowoomba in 1954, as the region prepared for a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

ROYAL PROCESSION: H.R.H. Queen Elizabeth II, Mayor of Toowoomba, Curly Anderson make their way down from the reception dais at Queen’s Park, followed by Prince Philip, Mrs. Anderson and the rest of the official party on March 11, 1954, as part of their Royal Tour. Approximately 100,000 people were in Toowoomba that day, hoping to catch a glimpse of their new monarch. Photo: Contributed

Valerie Inwood was a schoolgirl at the Athletic Oval in Toowoomba when Betty Smith presented Queen Elizabeth II with a bouquet of flowers.

Valerie Inwood snapped these photos of decorations across Toowoomba in 1954, as the region prepared for a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

Valerie Inwood snapped these photos of decorations across Toowoomba in 1954, as the region prepared for a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

Valerie Inwood snapped these photos of decorations across Toowoomba in 1954, as the region prepared for a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

Valerie Inwood snapped these photos of decorations across Toowoomba in 1954, as the region prepared for a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.