The assembly has developed ceremonial elements of previous royal openings by engaging the Wales Herald, the Honourable Thomas Lloyd, and enhancing the role of the Macebearer, David Melding AM.

Resplendent in black velvet and heavy gold braid and accompanied by his official sword-bearer and macebearer, he was honored by Governor Jack Williams at a dinner for 400, including that noted Tory Barry Go Id water.

To Vancouver's astonishment, London's 613th Lord Mayor accepted the invitation, promised to bring with him the Lord Mayor's whole retinue, lord sheriff, macebearer, sword-bearer and city marshal.

Do you mean that he was Macebearer?—Yes.

He was dressed in his official robes, had two sheriffs and a macebearer, and when he stood at the top of the grand staircase he was an imposing figure and the public was delighted with him.