Dutton addresses crowd of journos tucking into BBQ prawns and crocodile meat

The National Party treated Canberra’s press gallery to barbecued prawns and crocodile meat on Tuesday in what party leader David Littleproud joked was a “peace offering to the fourth estate”.

Ex-leader Barnaby Joyce wore an apron over his blue shirt and tie while flipping prawns on a hotplate, standing next to the event’s organiser, Senator Matt Canavan, who kept his suit jacket on under his apron.

That might have been a smart move, given the temperature in Parliament House’s Senate courtyard would hardly have topped 14C and there was a cold wind blowing.

“We’ve learnt our lesson. We’re going to have it in summer next year,” Canavan told the crowd, which included journalists from the ABC, News Corp, AAP, The Canberra Times and Guardian Australia.

Even Opposition Leader Peter Dutton showed up towards the end, although he didn’t appear to try the food.

He spoke briefly and thanked the food suppliers — which included Urangan Fisheries, Sydney Fish Market and Koorana Crocodile Farm — and spoke about the value of the fishing (and reptile farming) industry.

“Many of us are from electorates where these jobs exist, where this industry thrives, and the sustainable practices and way in which the Australian seafood industry operates in a responsible way is something we should be very proud of,” Dutton said.

Crikey understands crocodile is an acquired taste.

Would you rather crocodile or Peter Dutton on a function’s menu? Let us know by writing to letters@crikey.com.au. Please include your full name to be considered for publication. We reserve the right to edit for length and clarity.