It was with sadness I learned of the death overnight of His Royal Highness Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh.

Prince Philip lived a life full of service to the people of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

I extend my deep condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and all members of the Royal Family at this time.

For people of my era, Prince Philip has been at the Queen’s side as Duke of Edinburgh my entire life.

His dedication to Her Majesty and sense of duty has been an inspiration to generations.

Although before my time, the Queen and Prince Philip’s visit to Bundaberg in 1954 not long after her coronation is remembered as a highlight of our city’s great history.

Their genuine interest in our community touched many lives and is remembered fondly by those who were there.

The Queen and Prince Philip’s messages of support to the people of our region through some of our toughest challenges, including the recent floods of 2013 and the Childers Backpacker Hostel fire, brought comfort in a difficult time.