Opposition Leader Peter Dutton visits Townsville RSL on Anzac Day
A political leader has finally touched down in Townsville during the election campaign – but only for a brief appearance where a chant broke out for him to do a shooey. WATCH >
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A political leader has finally touched down in Townsville during the election campaign – but only for a brief appearance.
Opposition Leader Petter Dutton ducked into Townsville in time for an Anzac Day beer at the Townsville RSL, where he poured beers and tried his hand at a game of two-up.
With the RSL packed Mr Dutton was greeted by chants from the crowd to do a “shooey”, which then turned to booing after it was made apparent he would not be partaking.
Taking photos with the Herbert MP Phillip Thompson, Mr Dutton also greeted and took selfies with those celebrating.
Peter Dutton has taken his campaign to Townsville.
— Mitch Clarke (@96mitchclarke) April 25, 2025
We’re at the Townsville RSL with a rowdy crowd who want to see the Opposition Leader do a shoey. #auspolpic.twitter.com/6yzONHnhHN
The Opposition Leader had been in Brisbane for the Dawn Service.
Local media in Townsville were not invited to the RSL appearance – but the travelling journalists from around the country were invited to cover the visit.
There had been speculation for weeks as to whether Prime Minister Anthony Albanese or Mr Dutton would visit Townsville during the election campaign.
Mr Dutton, along with Mr Thompson, announced on Friday a $150,000 commitment if elected to go towards the 80 year celebrations of the Victory in the Pacific.
Mr Dutton said the announcement was part of the Coalition’s commitment to “honour the men and women who have served our nation.”
The Victory in the Pacific 80th celebrations are to be held in Townsville across the August long weekend of the 14th to 17th.
It will mark 80 years since Japan surrendered to the Allied forces, officially ending the Second World War in the Pacific.
The Coalition said it would match funds from the Townsville City Council and the state government to ensure the success of the event.
“This Anzac Day, we especially feel the weight of history as we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War. We express our gratitude to the one million Australians who served with great honour, and we honour the 39,000 Australians who gave their lives,” Mr Dutton said.
Mr Thompson said it was important to commemorate the milestone.
“The VP80 commemorations are an opportunity to remember and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our World War II veterans, who fought for the freedom we cherish today,” he said.
“Victory in the Pacific was a turning point that brought peace to Australia, and we must ensure the legacy of those who served, lives on through this historic commemoration.”
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Originally published as Opposition Leader Peter Dutton visits Townsville RSL on Anzac Day
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