Royal Reunion: Alpaca Charms King Charles in Australia

During King Charles and Queen Camilla's visit to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, a nine-year-old alpaca named Hephner, dressed in a suit and crown, became a highlight. Charles patted the alpaca, sharing a laugh after a snort. The monarch addressed climate change at a parliament reception amid an indigenous protest.

In a unique royal encounter, King Charles and Queen Camilla were greeted in Canberra by an unexpected well-wisher—a nine-year-old alpaca named Hephner, dressed in regal attire, among a crowd of over a thousand. The alpaca, waiting patiently with owner Robert Fletcher, stole the spotlight when Charles took a moment to interact with him, resulting in a light-hearted exchange.

Charles' engagement at the Australian War Memorial was part of his 16th official visit to the country, marking his first major international trip since a cancer diagnosis earlier this year. The visit included a reception in parliament where Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged Charles' commitment to addressing climate change, though it was briefly overshadowed by a protest from independent senator Lidia Thorpe demanding justice for indigenous Australians.

Despite the interruption, the event proceeded with tributes from officials and the public while Albanese admired the evolving relationship with the monarchy, reflecting on Australia's progress while sidestepping the republic debate. The royal couple's itinerary continues with visits to Sydney and the Commonwealth meeting in Samoa.

(With inputs from agencies.)