A royal high tea

Bacchus Marsh RSL vice president Sheila Freeman and secretary Iris Roberts. (Damjan Janevski) 332899_04.

The Bacchus Marsh RSL hosted a special high-tea to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III on Sunday, May 7.

More than 70 guests attended the sold-out event at the Bacchus Marsh RSL Hall from 2pm to 4pm.

RSL secretary Iris Roberts said guests came dressed for the occasion with ladies in coronation aprons, tiaras and pearls, while the men wore black bow ties and white shirts.

Volunteers prepared food including sandwiches, slices and scones, and tea was served in novelty British-themed teapots in the shape of, among other things, post boxes and red buses.

The event opened with the Ode to the Fallen, followed by God Save Our Gracious King, the Australian National Anthem and a toast to the King.

There was a raffle, with many prizes, but the top winner on the day took home an English hamper stuffed full of British food and treats.

Making an honourary appearance were life-size royal cut-outs of King Charles and Queen Camilla, which guests could pose with for photos.

Ms Roberts said it was a “very successful event” that was organised by Bacchus Marsh RSL vice president Sheila Freeman, events coordinator Noelene Hussey, and herself along with around six other volunteers.

Ms Roberts, who moved to Australia from England in 1975, said it was “really good to commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III”, and that the coronation itself was “very lovely”.

Liam McNally