Northern Beaches Council to consider Tony Abbott, Mike Baird and Jean Hay naming honour

Plans are being drawn up on the northern beaches to name a building, a park or even a statue in honour of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott. And he’s not the only high-profile politician set to be considered for a lasting legacy.

Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who is currently taking part in the Pollie Pedal bike ride, has given the plan his blessing.

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He only lost his seat a couple of months ago but Tony Abbott could soon have a park or public building named in his honour.

Northern Beaches Council is expected to discuss the proposal at its meeting on Tuesday.

Liberal councillor Pat Daley has put froward the notice of motion which also seeks to recognise former Premier Mike Baird along with the former mayor of Manly Jean Hay.

Cr Daley said he was open to ideas which could include the renaming of parks, buildings or even statues.

Mike Baird has said there are people far more deserving than himself. Picture: Britta Campion

“When Tony was beaten people started discussing how we could recognise his great service,” Cr Daley said.

“Then I thought there were others who deserved recognition as well. Mike (Baird) was our Premier and Jean (Hay) has done so much for the community and charity over many years.

“There’s precedent for this elsewhere in Sydney and I think it is only fitting.”

The motion will be debated at council where Cr Daley said he expected it to sail through.

“This is not a political issue. Regardless of which party you support you can recognise the significant contribution they have made,” he said.

Pat Daley said he came up with the idea shortly after Mr Abbott lost his seat. Picture: Bianca De Marchi

He said it would be key to go to community for ideas but said he had an “open mind” as to suggestions with the possibility of naming of new buildings, renaming of old buildings and spaces and even commissioning statues.

“Tony has always been very athletic so maybe a park and both Tony and Mike are members of Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club. Those are just two ideas,” he said.

Mr Abbott did not respond to request for comment but Cr Daley said the former PM had given the idea his blessing.

Jean Hay was the mayor of Manly for many years. Picture: Adam Yip

Mrs Hay said she was “surprised”, adding: “It is certainly something that never entered my head that’s for sure.

“I know in Pittwater and Warringah former mayors have had things named after them but it’s not something I've ever thought of.

“It would be very nice but we will see what happens.”

When asked about the proposal Mr Baird said: “Pat’s a good man but I think there are far more deserving people.”

The notice of motion will be discussed at council on Tuesday evening.

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