Malcolm Turnbull's Official Portrait Has A Subtle Nod To His Beloved Sydney Roosters

ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact

Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s official portrait has been unveiled at Parliament House today, with attendees noting what has been described as a subtle nod to the former prime minister’s long association with the Sydney Roosters.

The painting, completed by artist Jude Rae after multiple sittings, depicts Mr Turnbull standing with open hands in a neutral background. The composition includes a classic Roosters jersey worn over a Charles Tyrwhitt no-iron collared shirt and orange tie, as well as a dreadlock-style beanie in the club’s colours.

The artwork was presented to MPs, staff and members of the Historic Memorials Committee during a short ceremony. Those present said the portrait appeared consistent with Mr Turnbull's previous public engagements, with the sporting references understood to reflect a personal interest.

Mr Turnbull said the sittings were conducted in Rae’s Redfern studio and that the process was acceptable. He added that the portrait captured an aspect of his public and private life that he regarded as important.

Rae said the clothing choices and colour palette were selected to convey a sense of animation and openness. She said the final work aimed to reflect themes that emerged naturally during the sittings.

The portrait will now be added to the Historic Memorials Collection and displayed alongside those of other former prime ministers, high court judges, governor-generals and Bob Katter.

More to come.