THE Bathurst region rolls out the welcome mat today for a visit by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
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Her Excellency Quentin Bryce is expected to arrive here from Orange mid-morning ahead of a hectic schedule of engagements.
She will be accompanied by her husband Michael Bryce, and they are looking forward to seeing as much of the city as possible while they are here.
The whirlwind tour has been organised to coincide with National Families Week and Volunteers Week, and that theme will be reflected in their itinerary.
While here the Governor-General will meet representatives from local Aboriginal groups working on the former Sir Joseph Banks Nature Reserve at Mount Panorama and tour the Towri Mac Multi Functional Centre in Lloyds Road.
They will then meet with students and staff at Charles Sturt University and Carenne School.
The highlight of the day will be when all residents are invited to attend a civic reception being held in the Governor-General’s honour at the Pit Complex at Mount Panorama from 3.45pm.
Another highlight for the Governor-General will be a lap around Mount Panorama in the George Reed Special racer from the National Motor Racing Museum.
It is expected that at around 5pm she will take a stroll down lower Keppel Street to meet with local businesses in that historic precinct.
Concluding the agenda will be an appearance at the Bathurst Business Chamber’s business after hours event to be held at The Grange at CSU. That function starts at 6pm.
While the Governor-General is in town one local Keppel Street businessman is hoping he gets to meets the high ranking diplomat.
Glenn Smith from Frank Smith Shoe Repairs and Work Clothing is an ardent monarchist and can’t speak highly enough of the role that Her Excellency Quentin Bryce plays as the Queen’s representative in the country.
“I sure hope she sticks her head in the door of the shop and says hello,” Mr Smith said. “I’ve got a lot of respect for that lady. She carries herself with such poise and grace and is a credit to the important office she holds.
“I know there is a push to become a republic, but I think once that happens it won’t be the Australia we know any more.”
Mr Smith said he’s got a special present for the Governor-General.
“I can’t think of anything better than a pair of Crookwell socks – bright red of course,” he said. “They’re made by a great little family business from Aussie wool.”
Peter Wright from Central Commercial Printers has the dubious honour of being the chaperone for the Governor-General on her visit to Keppel Street.
“I had a call from the mayor about it,” he said. “She asked me how I would feel about showing her around. How could I refuse?” he said.
