It is true to say that Australia was in the grip of royal fever and the popularity of the royal couple was at an all time high and, for one local identity, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet the Queen.
When the intriguing phone call from Government House was answered at Ballandean Estate, little did the staff know what was in store for Angelo Puglisi. After a few more exchanges and confirmations, it was finally revealed that Angelo had been asked by the Governor of Queensland to attend a lunch with the Queen.
“It was a tremendous honour; something I never thought I would have the opportunity to do. In fact, I have often joked to friends about what I might say if I ever did meet Her Majesty,” Mr Puglisi said.
Mr Puglisi, a Queensland Great and Australia Day Ambassador, attended the luncheon at the River Room, Southbank with other guests from all walks of Queensland life.