Trawling through archives of images of the late Queen’s 14 visits to Canberra between 1954 and 2011, this absolute gem caught my eye.

On Sunday 10 October 1982, a resplendent Queen is seen holding bouquets of spring blooms while on a public walkabout in Canberra, when she stops to inspect something a small child is proffering to her in their outstretched hand.

My first thought: What on earth is this dear little poppet offering to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II? Then, I wondered if any of our readers know this child? Is it, perhaps, you? What are your memories of this day? Do you live in Canberra today?

Renowned for her warmth, equanimity and grace, the Queen appears to be interested and engaged. Meanwhile, look at the faces of three women in the background: one (possibly Mum?) has her hands over her mouth, while two are laughing delightedly.

The photo was taken 40 years ago, so we’d estimate the gift giver is now in their mid-to-late 40s.

If you can help solve these mysteries, please email us at [email protected] or tell us in the comments below.

And even if you don’t know the answers to ‘who’ or ‘what’, you’re welcome to take a guess at the ‘what’. Share your suggestions in the comments.

Ah, the sweet innocence of childhood …

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