Matthew Mitcham meets his Queen

Gay Games Ambassador Matthew Mitcham writes on his Facebook page:

TOTALLY JUST MET HER MAJESTY!! HIGHLIGHT OF MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!

Or as the Herald Sun writes:

AUSTRALIA has grown into a prosperous, energetic and dynamic nation that should be proud of its economic and academic achievements, despite the devastation caused by disaster and war, the Queen says.

The 85-year-old British monarch gave a brief speech this evening at Canberra's Parliament House, where she and the Duke of Edinburgh were welcomed as the guests of honour at a special government reception.

She told the eclectic crowd, which included Olympic diver Matthew Mitcham, billionaire miner Clive Palmer, Australian of the Year Simon McKeon and a mix of past and present MPs, that she'd watched Australia develop at a rapid pace since first visiting in 1954.

"This country has made dramatic progress economically, in social, scientific and industrial endeavours and, above all, in self-confidence," said the Queen, who was dressed in a cream-coloured sheath under a silver-threaded jacket.

"Australia has flourished and achieved excellence on the world stage."

[...]

Prime Minister Julia Gillard, wearing a silver suit, earlier welcomed the Queen as a woman who has endured, having "walked fully two-thirds of Australia's national journey with us".

"In this home of Australian democracy, you are a vital constitutional part, not a guest," Ms Gillard said.

"Just as in this nation, you can only ever be welcomed as a beloved and respected friend."

[...]

After the speeches, the 200 or so guests were treated to a performance by ARIA award-winning indigenous artist Gurrumul Yunupingu before Ms Gillard and the Queen mingled with guests on the floor of the Great Hall.

The royal couple were invited to sign Parliament House's visitors book before heading "home" to Government House.