Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has launched a stunning critique of his former political home, the Liberal Party, declaring it has 'lost its way' during the ceremonial unveiling of his official portrait in Federal Parliament.
A Political Broadside at a Traditional Event
The ex-Liberal leader was honoured with the traditional portrait ceremony on Thursday, but he used the occasion to deliver pointed remarks about the current state of the Coalition. 'The right side of politics in Australia has lost its way,' Turnbull stated bluntly to those gathered for the event.
His comments arrive as the Liberal Party continues to face internal struggles over its identity and policy direction following a series of electoral setbacks. When questioned about his thoughts on the artistic merit of the portrait itself, Turnbull was more diplomatic, remarking, 'I like it, but I guess it’s more important what others think of it.'
Other Major News Stories
In other devastating news, the death toll from a massive apartment fire in Hong Kong has soared past 80. Authorities confirm that at least 83 people are dead, with approximately 300 individuals still listed as missing.
The blaze tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, which was undergoing renovations at the time. Firefighters battled intense heat and thick smoke for over a day to reach residents feared trapped on the upper floors. In a tragic development, three construction company bosses have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the fire.
Bystander Hailed a Hero in Shark Attack
Closer to home, a quick-thinking bystander is being praised for their heroic actions during a shark attack at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay National Park, east of Taree. Emergency services were called to the isolated beach around 6.30am on Thursday after reports that two people, believed to be Swiss nationals in their 20s, had been bitten.
While the woman died before paramedics could arrive, a makeshift tourniquet applied to the man's leg by a bystander is credited with saving his life. NSW Ambulance Superintendent Joshua Smyth commended the individual, stating the action helped stem bleeding from a 'large laceration to his upper-right thigh' and allowed paramedics time to reach the scene. The male victim was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in a stable condition.
