Senior Australian of the Year invited to attend Queen's funeral

A select group of prominent Australians have received a royal invitation to attend the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

Senior Australian of the Year, Val Dempsey told Today Extra she "was completely in shock" when she found out she was one of the few invited.

"What a wonderful honour to be invited to attend this moment in history," Val said.

READ MORE: Princess Anne 'the unsung hero' of the Royal Family

The Canberra local has dedicated over 50 years of her life to volunteering with St John Ambulance and will join the Australian Prime Minister, Governor General and fellow Australian of the Year Dylan Alcott among others at the Queen's funeral.

Val recalled meeting the Queen in June via a Zoom call and said was lovely and involved in the conversation they had.

"I was just so completely in the moment with her. She was so engaged," Val said.

"She asked some lovely questions - She was so switched-on, so engaged and I must say very witty and very chatty."

Val praised Her Majesty's "service before self" and how much of a role model she was her entire life.

"She's been the most inspirational woman for people who step forward, stand up and put their hand up."

Watch the full interview with Val above

Join the Today show family and give yourself the chance to win great prizes by signing up to our weekly newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox every Wednesday with a special message from Karl and Ally. You can sign up for free here.