Flags at half-mast to salute 70-year reign

Many would recall her first official visit on May 27, 1980, to proclaim Bankstown a City.
Thousands turned out to welcome the Queen, and her late husband Prince Phillip, as they walked through a cheering crowd, and streets lined with old Holden and Valiant cars.
The UK’s longest serving monarch died peacefully at her Balmoral castle aged 96, after a reign spanning 70 years.
Mayor Khal Asfour said her Majesty has been an institution and a pillar of strength over many years.
“Her grace and dignity bringing nations together, no matter their religious beliefs or economic circumstances,” he said.
“As people gather outside her home, flowers laid at the gates and tributes flow in from world leaders, it is only fitting our City also marks her passing.
“The council will fly its flags at half-mast as a mark of respect to a woman who has been a part of many people’s lives over many years.”
Council will also dedicate an area at Bankstown Knowledge Centre with photos and headlines of her visit, including the official visitors book she signed all those years ago, and invite King Charles III “to follow in his late mother’s footsteps and visit our City”.