Prince William and Kate Middleton sent a video message to Australian first responders Tuesday as the land Down Under celebrated Thank A First Responder Day. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said that the frontline workers should be proud of everything that they have done for many communities in Australia.
The second in line to the throne mentioned in the three-minute video message that Australia's first responders had the most challenging task early in the year when the bushfire ravaged regions in the country. Prince William said that despite this huge task, the first responders tirelessly risked their lives just to protect many lives, including the unique Australian wildlife.
Prince William said that the world watched first responders save living creatures and were so moved by their efforts. Kate said that the COVID-19 outbreak has also challenged first responder but they did their jobs, day in and out, despite risking their own health.
The Duke of Cambridge also made mention that these first responders are actually volunteers, which make their efforts more than amazing because they chose to serve and sacrifice. Prince William also commended the families and friends of these first responders who offer their support every day.
This is the first time Australia is holding its Thank A First Responder Day. It's been organized by Fortem Australia, a non-profit working to support the mental health and wellbeing of those in the frontlines.
In February, there were plans for Prince William and Kate to visit Australia sometime in the spring so they could personally thank first responders amid the bushfire devastation. But before their planned trip was settled with an itinerary, the world had to shut down, close borders and temporarily stop travels because of the coronavirus pandemic. Kensington Palace has not announced if the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will still visit the Commonwealth country this year since the virus is still a pressing problem.
Meanwhile, volunteers who have worked with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said that the couple "genuinely care" for their work and their engagement with people. Prince William and Kate do not have any put-ons. They do not need the press or audience around them to make an impression.
Alexis Caught of the Shout text messaging charity spoke with Hello to say that she was really surprised by the Prince William and Kate's treatment and character given their stature are royals. She said that the Cambridge couple are bent on shining the light on their advocacies, especially mental health.
