The 150-member Australian Federation Guard (AFG) rehearsed at the Royal Artillery Barracks, in Repository Road, Woolwich, before taking up its first public duties on Saturday outside Buckingham Palace, St James' Palace and the Tower of London.

The AFG, which includes men and women from the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Airforce, was formed in January this year to undertake ceremonial activities during Australia Week, the centenary of the creation of the Commonwealth of Australia.

Australian contingent commander Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Goodman said it was a great honour to represent Australia at this important time in the nation's history.

He added: "For many members of the AFG, taking part in the Queen's Guard will be the highlight of their career."