Protesters Disrupt Dutton's Campaign Event in NSW

Opposition leader Peter Dutton was forced to abandon a campaign event in Sanctuary Point on the NSW South Coast after anti-nuclear protesters from the South Coast Labour Council disrupted proceedings dressed in hazmat suits. The protesters, referencing nuclear energy and Fukushima, clashed verbally with local sports club members and were told to leave by Shoalhaven City councillor Selena Clancy, who felt their demonstration was inappropriate for children present. The protest occurred just as Dutton was set to announce funding for a junior rugby league team alongside Liberal candidate Andrew Constance in the marginal seat of Gilmore. Despite attempts by Liberal Party staff and police, the protesters remained, resulting in the cancellation of the press conference. The incident highlights ongoing tensions over nuclear energy and climate issues in the electorate, as well as the highly competitive political landscape. During the disrupted event, a local voter publicly switched support from Labor to the Liberal candidate, reflecting the seat's tight contest.