The Opening of Parliament -- In the lead up to opening day on 5 February we will show you some of the features of the ceremony. -- The Usher of the Black Rod at the House of Assembly To make sure all of the members of Parliament hear the Governor’s address, the Usher of the Black Rod comes over from the Legislative Council to the House of Assembly to request that the members attend in the Legislative Council. #saparli | Parliament of South Australia

Black Rod is sent to summon the UK House of Commons to listen to the King's Speech in the UK House of Lords. On her approach, the doors are slammed in her face, symbolising the independence of UK House of Commons from the monarchy. She then knocks three times before the doors are re-opened. #StateOpening | UK Parliament