Kate Middleton

The Duchess of Cambridge thanked well-wishers for an "incredibly warm welcome" at Bear Cottage children's hospice in Manly, Sydney

Kate Middleton gave her first speech of the Royal Tour in Australia where she thanked parents and children at a hospice for their "incredibly warm welcome".

The Duchess of Cambridge was at Bear Cottage in Manly, Sydney - one of only two children's hospices in Australia.

She and Prince William chatted to parents and children before taking part in a music therapy class.

Kate later spoke to the small crowd and said the trip with Prince William and George had been "very special" and she would remember it with "fond and happy memories."

This picture below shows a word cloud generated from the speech, with the most popular words given greater prominence.

Wordle

Interesting: A word cloud of Kate Middleton's speech

Read the full transcript below

"It really is wonderful to be here today - having the chance to meet you all and to see the incredible work of Bear Cottage.

"First class delivery of children's palliative care is life changing.

"When families are confronted with the shattering news that their children have a life limiting condition, their world can fall apart. It is at those times that professional support is imperative.

"I first saw this through East Anglia's Children's Hospices and have since been fortunate to see similar work in Malaysia, then last week at Rainbow Place in New Zealand, and now here today.

"William and I are strong believers in collaborative work. The sharing of best practice is transformational for organisations.

"The needs of families requiring children's palliative care across the world are varied. Circumstances and environment can differ - but the aim of those supporting them is the same - to offer the best and most loving care possible.

"I am delighted that Bear Cottage and EACH are planning to be part of a 'community of best practice'.

"The haven that you have created here is inspirational, and there is so much that you can share with each other as you continue to support and nurture those in your care.

"If I may, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has welcomed me and George so incredibly warmly on our first visit.

"To be here together as a family has been very special and we will always remember it with fond and happy memories.

"Thank you for inviting us here and for such a generous welcome."

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met Max McIntyre at the Bear Cottage Hospice in Sydney

Good job the Duchess of Cambridge was wearing sensible shoes for the hectic third day of their visit to Australia

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