Prince Edward Begins Australian Visit

3 weeks ago 27th Oct 14:00

Britain's Prince Edward kicks off his visit to Australia today (27.10.09).

The 45-year-old Earl of Wessex flew into Sydney this morning, as part of a two-day visit to promote his father Prince Philip's Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

He is expected to attend a series of official engagements on behalf of his father today.

Tomorrow, he will visit Australian Governor-General Quentin Bryce's Sydney home, where he will present 24 young people with gold Duke of Edinburgh's Awards.

The award was created in Britain in 1956. It recognises the skills of young people aged 16 to 25.

After the presentation, Edward - who is the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth, and seventh-in-line to the throne - will visit St Mary's Cathedral School to attend a morning tea.

He will then attend an official reception at the Sydney Opera House.