Mr Hoddle told the NVI ahead of the swanky event that he was "completely over the moon to be going" and hoped he might even speak to the Queen herself.

He thought they might have a few points in common, such as a love of horses, and was "sure she would be very interested to hear how Australian regional communities are faring with the drought".

The palace hosts three garden parties every summer for 30,000 guests, who are recognised for their service to their community.

Mr Hoddle, of Gunnible Pastoral Company, entered the ballot to attend.

He said that, although "Australians sometimes flirt with republicanism ... deep down there is such genuine love for our Queen".

"Since putting the photo of the invitation up on Instagram, people are coming out of the woodwork to scramble to be my plus one."

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However, Mr Hoddle said he would go solo; wearing morning suit, top hat and carefully polished shoes as he strolled from his accommodation on Piccadilly, across Green Park, via the famous facade into the place and out onto the lawn.

The royals' official website says guests at each garden party consume about 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 slices of cake.

"Garden parties are an important way for the Queen to speak to a broad range of people from all walks of life, all of whom have made a positive impact in their community," it states.

Mr Hoddle said "the monarchy has an extraordinary ability to evolve and reinvent itself as it has for over a thousand years".

"I think the young royals add a touch of glamour and renewal.

"They're also are such hard workers, advocating for real issues facing our communities like mental health, human rights and environmental conservation ...

"The failure of politics proves time and time again how lucky we are to be a constitutional monarchy and I'm very proud to say I am a monarchist.

"It's an opportunity of a lifetime and a memory I know I'll cherish forever."