The Kevin Rudd press bus arrives at an outer-suburban shopping centre in Perth, Saturday, November 10.

The media camera crews quickly grab their equipment – they know the Opposition Leader is already inside the building.  

This event is known as a shopping centre “walk through”. Journalists can ask no questions. It is more of a photo opportunity. Kevin Rudd will talk to shoppers, while the media film the results. 

The “media circus” leaves the press bus and head toward the shopping centre.

The pace quickens – Kevin Rudd is inside.

And then it’s on.

The media jostle for position.

Kevin Rudd meets and greets many shoppers. He tends to shake each person’s hand twice – once upon greeting, and once when saying goodbye. No wonder he has sore hands.

Suddenly the media disappear and Rudd is left alone. Why? The camera crews have found a woman dressed as a Christmas Elf - who knows where. But they ask her if she’ll go and meet Rudd. She agrees, and the media frenzy becomes furious.

Rudd is so popular in this particular shopping centre that he even gets free coffee at Cafe Di Roma.