A memorial service will be held in Cairns next week to commemorate the life of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
The non-denominational memorial service will be held at St Monica's Cathedral (181 Abbott St, Cairns), from 10am to 11am on Thursday 22 September, coinciding with the special public holiday set aside as a National Day of Mourning.
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said Queen Elizabeth II was much loved and respected throughout the world, and the memorial service was an opportunity for people to remember her remarkable life.
"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was the longest serving monarch in modern times, and for the vast majority of our community; the only monarch that we have ever known," Cr manning said.
"The national outpouring of respect and love that has followed the news of the Queen's passing, is undoubtedly due to the strong affection Australia had for her.
"She epitomised 'servant leadership' – and she, like no other, mastered that.
"Whilst in service to the Commonwealth, Her Majesty visited Cairns on three occasions in 1954, 1970, and 2002, creating treasured lifelong memories for residents.
"In respectful acknowledgement of the significance of her reign, it is appropriate that the city formally commemorates her."
Cr Manning said a commemorative message wall will also be in place for Cairns community members to record their personal messages, both at the service and available for a period of time afterwards.
Seedlings will also be made available to those who attend the service, so that they can plant their own memorial trees as a way of marking the historic significance of her legacy.
The Cairns memorial is a free, ticketed event, with numbers limited.
Tickets will be available via Eventbrite from 9am tomorrow (Thursday 15 September). A booking link will be posted on Council's website and Facebook page.
To facilitate the service, Abbott St will be closed between Florence St and Minnie St, from 9am to 11.30am.
Cairns residents wishing to express their grief and condolences at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, can also do so through an online condolence book, available at www.qld.gov.au/condolences.
