MUMS - AND TURNBULL - KNOW BEST

LEADING Australians yesterday pleaded with the nation to reclaim its laid-back nature after an online meltdown over Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s photo of himself cuddling his baby granddaughter at the football while holding a beer.

“When was drinking while holding a child OK?” one person posted.

Entrepreneur Dick Smith yesterday said anyone who could not appreciate the moment should pack up and leave. “This kind of outrage is so un-Australian,” Mr Smith said. “Go and live somewhere else if you don’t like this.”

Social researcher Mark McCrindle said Australia had “become a nation of judgers”. “This is the land of fair dinkum, no worries, she’ll be right – where has that sentiment gone,” Mr McCrindle said.

Doting mum Melissa Sorbello – who visited the inaugural Gold Coast Pregnancy and Baby Expo at the Convention Centre yesterday with nine-monthold daughter Asher – was also surprised by the controversy.

“How ridiculous. It’s a bit over the top,” Melissa said of the backlash. “I’m pretty sure having one drink while holding a child doesn’t make you a terrible parent or grandparent.”

Picture: GLENN HAMPSON Victoria Blue store owner Vicki Howlett looks on as nine-month-old Asher tries an outfit bought for her by mum Melissa Sorbello at the Gold Coast Baby Expo yesterday.

Malcolm Turnbull with his granddaughter Alice.