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Today, the Government of South Australia and the South Australian Branch of the Returned and Services League of South Australia (RSL) celebrated the annual Christmas Cake Ceremony with the Chelsea Pensioners. 

A festive tradition that began in 1949, each year a large Christmas cake is presented to the Chelsea Pensioners by either the States of Australia or the Australian Defence Forces as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Australia and the UK. 

This year's cake was designed in the shape of the Adelaide logo, wishing the Chelsea Pensioners a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The cake is traditionally cut during the ceremony with a ceremonial sword. This year the honour was bestowed on Chelsea Pensioner Arthur Teasdale, who's special connection to the region, having lived in Adelaide for 44 years before joining the Royal Hospital, made him a fitting candidate. 

Following an introduction from the Governor of the Royal Hospital, the Agent General for South Australia, Bill Muirhead AM, welcomed guests on behalf of South Australia. In his address he said: "Our two Nations are great friends. We have an enduring and friendly rivalry - well sometimes it's friendly, apart from cricket and rugby!"

The cake will be divided up and put out over the Christmas period so all of the Chelsea Pensioners can enjoy a piece.