A naval review is often held at Spithead, Hampshire, for special occasions such as jubilees, visiting dignitaries or, as in this case, coronation. This home movie, filmed by Australia’s longest serving Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies, captures the monarch reviewing its fleet.

Menzies RG: Our Coronation Tour synopsis

This home movie filmed by the Australian Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Robert G Menzies, records the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the official ceremonies and parades associated with the event.

Menzies RG: Our Coronation Tour curator's notes

Shot on 16mm colour film, this home movie filmed by Australia’s longest serving Prime Minister, Sir Robert Menzies, on 2 June 1953 is a significant historical record that captures the official ceremonies for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. It begins with an official welcome. Sir Robert captures prominent leaders including the Queen of Tonga and The Prime Minister of Canada.

Heather Henderson, the daughter of Sir Robert Menzies, revealed in an interview for The Canberra Files, that although Menzies shot most of his home movies, much of the Coronation Service was filmed by his secretary while he was outside the Abbey.

Notes by Elizabeth Taggart-Speers