Prince Charles, accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla, is currently embarking on a one-week tour of the country and spent time in the Riverina.

The royal pair stayed with close friend and hedge-fund billionaire, Sir Michael Hintze, at Deltroit Station, known as MH Premium Farms, near Tumblong for several days. Sir Michael has splashed out between $2-3 million in improvements to the Deltroit gardens and beautiful homestead in the last year before the Royals’ arrival. The prime sheep/cattle property overlooks Hillas Creek and is described as a “magnificent property”.

Sir Michael, with an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion, is the founder of London-based $12 billion global fund manager CQS. 

Rumours had flown about Gundagai of the impending visit. One Gundagai local reckons they spotted Charles in car being driven through Gundagai during the week as he took a tour of the area.

Cootamundra-Gundagai mayor Abb McAlister was aware of the auspicious visit. 

“It’s nice to have some royal visitation in the region,” he said. “We’ve had Prime Ministers in the past (visiting Gundagai’s famous Niagara Cafe). I hoped Prince Charles gave a tick of approval to our new $6m main street improvements.

“All we need now is a visit from Prime Minister Turnbull one day – the invitation is there.”

The royal couple then travelled through Wagga to board a flight to the Gold Coast, where they will represent the Queen at the opening of the Commonwealth Games tonight.