Tony Abbott concedes defeat in Warringah

Tony Abbott has conceded defeat in Warringah, beaten by independent challenger Zali Steggall.

Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has conceded defeat in Warringah, pictured here with his wife. Picture: (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)

Tony Abbott has conceded defeat in Warringah, beaten by independent challenger Zali Steggall.

In doing so, the former prime minister said: “It doesn't hurt to lose, I’d rather be a loser than a quitter.”

To chants of “Tony, Tony, Tony’ at the Manly-Warringah Leagues Club, Mr Abbott made his concession about 8.30pm on Saturday.

Former Prime Minister and Warringah MP Tony Abbott has conceded defeat to Zali Steggall. Picture: (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi).

“We have got good news, and yes we have got a little bit of bad news,” he told his adoring supporters.

“But the good is much more important than the bad, the good news is there is every chance the Liberal National Coalition has won this election.

“This is a really extraordinary result, a stupendous result, a great result for Scott Morrison and the rest of the wider Liberal team,” he said.

“Scott Morrison will quite rightly enter the Liberal pantheon forever.

It is disappointing for us here in Warringah, but what matters is what is best for the country.

“Not who wins or loses Warringah but who forms or does not form a government in Canberra.”

Tony Abbott surrounded by supporters as he concedes defeat. Picture: Tim Hunter.

Mr Abbott told his fans that he had concerns ever since the result of the Wentworth by-election six months ago, when Kerryn Phelps defeated Liberal candidate Dave Sharma in the battle for Malcolm Turnbull’s vacated seat.

“I want to say a big thank you to the people of Warringah,” he said.

“I could not have achieved anything in public life but for the people that have supported me for the last 25 years.

“Warringah is the place I live, the place I will continue to serve, and I look forward to many more years living working and serving in the greatest part of the greatest city in the greatest country on earth.”

There were boos at the mere mention of Zali Steggall’s name, but Mr Abbott was magnanimous in defeat.

At one point, he encouraged his supporters not to boo Ms Steggall.

“I do congratulate Zali Steggall on what is a magnificent win for her,” he said. “And I hope that she will have a long and successful career as a local member for Warringah.”

Roxanne Holmes, daughter of James Ricketson.

Within minutes of Mr Abbott concluding his speech the media were moved out of the function room.

There was then further commotion when security staff tried to eject media from the building entirely, leading to a 15 minute standoff.

Meanwhile, supporters continued to watch the results roll in on the big screen.

There were cheers every time a Liberal result was announced. However, the biggest ovation came when John Howard was interviewed.

In contrast boos rang out whenever a Labor result was called with the biggest boo coming when Tanya Plibersek was interviewed.

With print journalists desperately tapping away to get their stories in by deadline, one man, glass in hand approached.

“Make sure you write the story properly,” he said. “We may have lost the battle but we won the war,” he said.

Members of the crowd are seen cheering as former Prime Minister and Warringah Liberal candidate Tony Abbott concedes defeat. Picture: (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)

“Tony is a Liberal hero, he took one for the team.”

Among those who had desperately hoped the night would have gone differently was Roxanne Holmes.

Mr Abbott had helped with the release of her father James Ricketson from a Cambodian jail.

“Tony gave me a big hug.

“It is very sad but Tony has always had a fighting spirit and a positive attitude,” she said.

“He was really positive in there, fully supportive of the result and his new life is just beginning.

“I think he will be heavily involved in the Liberal Party. I don’t think there is any sadness, he was really positive and looking forward to the future.”

Manly State MP James Griffin described Mr Abbott as a political giant.

“Tony Abbott has served Warringah for 25 plus years with distinction and he is a giant of the Australian political scene.

“Tonight is what it is. I look forward to working with the elected member for Warringah.

I don’t know her well (Zali Steggall) but I’m sure we will generate a great working relationship for Manly and Warringah.”

Mr Abbott finished his speech by turning to his family who had joined him on stage.

“Margie you have been a wonderfully supportive spouse,” he said before embracing her.

“I thank my children, two of whom can’t be here tonight. One of whom did a wonderful job of winning votes up at Allambie Heights today.

“I thank my mum and I thank my sisters, all three of whom were booth captain today.”