THE SQUIZ
Plans for the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla have been announced, including a formal ceremony at Westminster Abbey and a concert at Windsor Castle. The events will take place over 3 days from 6-8 May, with the Monday being a public holiday in the UK (no word yet on whether Aussies will get one too…). While Charles has been the monarch since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died on 8 September, the coronation is a 1,000yo practice that “signals the conferment of God’s grace upon a ruler”. The British royals are the only mob in Europe still carrying out the tradition.

GIMME THE REGAL RUNDOWN
It starts with “the King’s procession” from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey on Saturday, where a “solemn religious service” will be conducted by Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. It will “reflect the monarch’s role today and look towards the future” and include “The Coronation Oath”, with Charles swearing to govern his subjects “according to their respective laws and customs”. Then a “coronation procession” will take them back to Buckingham Palace, where they’ll wave from the balcony. Sunday is party time with a concert and light show, which the palace says will be headlined by “some of the world’s biggest entertainers” – and a choir including NHS workers, refugees, LGBTQIA+ and deaf singers. Millions of Brits will also join street parties for the “coronation big lunch”. And on Monday’s day off, “the big help out” is to promote volunteers.

WHAT ABOUT THE ROYAL ELEPHANTS IN THE ROOM?
Nothing’s been said about which family members will appear where during the big weekend. There are conflicting reports about whether Harry and Meghan have been invited – given the recent high-profile criticism of their royal rellies, the pair may still attend but take a back seat, as they did at last year’s Queen’s jubilee celebrations and her funeral. Also likely to be a low-key presence is Prince Andrew for reasons we know all too well… Front and centre, though, will be future monarchs William and Kate and their children, as well as extended family members, other European royals, and world leaders, who’ll all be there to mark the historic event. It’s still to be confirmed, but that could include PM Anthony Albanese – and it’s rumoured Hugh Jackman and Kylie should be so lucky too…