11 February 2025
Prince Harry has added an unexpected item to his collection: a personalised jar of Vegemite, gifted by Australian competitor Squadron Leader Belinda Cully during the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025.
While addressing the crowd on stage, the Duke of Sussex and Patron of the Invictus Games Foundation noticed Squadron Leader Culley waving a jar with a bright yellow lid from behind a security barrier. Curious, Prince Harry, and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, approached Squadron Leader Culley, who handed over the jar labelled "Prince Harry".
"I had the honour and privilege of meeting Prince Harry today," Squadron Leader Culley shared.
"My teammate Cindy came up with the idea of creating a Vegemite jar with Prince Harry’s name on it, and I was fortunate enough to give it to him on behalf of the Australian Team as a token of our appreciation."
Squadron Leader Culley described the Duke as gracious and down-to-earth, noting he even inquired about the sports she was competing in.
"He came over and thanked me for my service. I asked whether they liked Vegemite or had ever tried it, and Meghan said she really enjoyed it.
"I joked that the jar would be enough to last their family for 10 years."
The memorable meeting ended with Squadron Leader Culley receiving two hugs each from both Harry and Meghan, adding a special touch to her Invictus Games experience.
After suffering a serious back injury that required major spinal fusion surgery in 2023, Squadron Leader Culley is competing in indoor rowing, Nordic skiing, sitting volleyball and swimming at this year's Games.
"It really topped off a brilliant day on the mountain," she said.
