"In an era where trust in institutions is declining, Queen Elizabeth evolved, adapted, and changed within her role as monarch but, ultimately, remains true to the commitment she made all those years ago — 'Throughout all my life, and with all my heart, I will strive to be worthy of your trust' the Governor-General said."

David Hurley flew to London last week for the Queen's funeral, and said he's still trying to understand what he witnessed and experienced there.

He said it was "Something bigger than us, but something very personal".

"Two moments stand out and have informed my thinking about days since Her Majesty passed. The first, an early very cold morning walk to and through Green Park. It was far from the pomp and ceremony of the formal events, in fact, we were in our exercise kit.

"As we entered Green Park there was a strong floral scent in the air. Interlaced around the trees and through the park with thousands upon thousands of tributes. Flowers, handwritten messages, and other tokens, including a sleuth of Paddington Bear's.

"Even in the early hours it was crowded. But people won't taking selfies or posing, they were respectful of each other, but largely contained in their own intimate and individual reflections."

'Today is a sad day, a day of National Mourning':

David Hurley said while the passing of the Queen was inevitable, it "has still struck with an impact that has exceeded any expectation here in Australia, in the United Kingdom and, indeed, across the globe".

"Amongst the sadness though it is also a day of reflection and celebration, a day to recognise what it means to have lived in the second Elizabethan age, to ponder what lessons we can and should draw in the months and years to come," he says.

"While we mourn her passing, we are grateful that we have witnessed and benefited from her remarkable life."

A minute's silence has been held for the Queen:

Australians where encouraged to take part in a minute's silence held across the country for Queen Elizabeth.

"As we pay tribute to Her Majesty, I encourage all Australians to reflect on her remarkable life of dedication and service with one minute's silence at 11am," Mr Albanese says.

"Her Majesty had a deep affection with Australia and Australians have remembered her fondly since her passing.

"The Queen lived her life with an air of dignity and grace that will be remembered for centuries to come."

Originl Story By | Bridget Judd