Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s visit to Darwin took an unexpected turn when a casual footy kick at a media event struck a Channel 10 cameraman in the head, leaving him with a scratched and bloodied forehead.
The incident occurred during a photo opportunity at the Palmerstone sports ground, where Dutton was announcing a $5 million investment in the Cazalys Arena sports precinct. Ghaith Nadir, the cameraman injured, was filming the event when Dutton’s ball hit his camera, which then slammed into his forehead.
“Oh got him,” Dutton said after the ball struck Nadir, before quickly realising the extent of the accident. “Oh it split him open too. Oh no,” he added.
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Dutton promptly went over to check on the injured cameraman, who, despite the bleeding, was not seriously harmed. He also shook Nadir’s hand afterward in a gesture of apology.
While addressing the media later, Dutton emphasized the purpose of his visit: “We know that sport is a powerful tool in bringing communities together. That’s why the Coalition is investing in Cazalys Arena,” he said. “This iconic arena will get the upgrade it needs and deserves. This will give thousands of young people and their families a safe and modern sporting environment and ensure this great arena is fit for purpose for decades to come.”
Dutton’s unfortunate drop kick comes just days after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made headlines for taking a tumble on stage during another event.
Earlier that morning, Dutton had also unveiled a new Coalition policy aiming to buy back the Port of Darwin, which had previously been leased to a Chinese-linked private company for 99 years—a deal approved under then-Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
