Today marks her Majesty's 85 th birthday an achievement in itself for the sovereign of 16 countries and head of both the Anglican Church and Commonwealth of Nations. On top of these duties the Queen is also Patron to over 600 organisations and regularly tours both her realms and many countries throughout the world on official engagements.

Each year I hear the Queen speak and see the joy she gives people I get a little more awed by her, it is her regal nature of course, but more so her ability to inspire and congratulate people who are doing great things for our community in a way no politician or celebrity can.

This year the Queen also became a Great Grandmother, a pointer in time which most people are well and truly retired to family life. Queen Elizabeth is a remarkable woman who has without question been an exemplary human being and if the longevity and commitment of her Mother is anything to go by we will be honoured by her continuing community service for many more years to come.

Happy Birthday QEII