NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet forgets name of former Governor-General Quentin Bryce

The NSW Premier appeared to stumble over the name of one of Australia’s most well-known politicians, leaving him red faced in front of reporters.

Dominic Perrottet has made an embarrassing stumble, appearing to forget the name of a former Governor-General while speaking to reporters at a press conference.

The Premier appeared at the Sydney Cricket Ground to unveil a bronze sculpture of female cricketer, Belinda Clark. The monument is a world first for a statue to be dedicated to a female cricketer.

While facing reporters, the Premier was unable to recall the name of Australia’s first female govenor-general, the Hon. Dame Quentin Bryce, who unveiled the statue alongside the Premier.

“And can I say that there be no better person to unveil this statue today than Australia’s first ever female governor-general Dame Bashir, ugh sorry, Dame…,” he said.

“I’ve had a mind blank,” Mr Perrottet later added.

Mr Perrottet appeared red faced while he stumbled multiple times before eventually saying her name. At one point he nearly referred to Dame Bryce as Dame Marie Bashir, who served as the Governor of NSW between 2001 to 2014.

“In Quentin Bryce, sorry. I had Marie Bashir (former NSW governor) for many years as Premier,” he said.

NCA NewsWire has reached out to Mr Perrottet’s office for comment.

Premier Dominic Perrottet was unable to recall the name of the former governor-general. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

Dame Bryce served as the 25th governor-general of Australia from 2008 to 2014 and was previously the 24th Governor of Queensland. During her term, the politician became well known for her bold and colourful fashion choices and championed Australian designers.

She was also the President of the Australian Women’s Cricket Council while Clark, 52, was captain of the Australian Women’s Cricket team.

The revered cricketer is considered one of Australia’s best players. Clark was the captain of the Australian cricket team for 12 years and was the first to lead an Australian cricket team at three World Cups. Her feat was later matched by Ricky Ponting.

Premier Dominic Perrottet was joined by the Minister for Sport Alister Henskens, Venues NSW Chairman Tony Shepherd AO, the Hon. Dame Quentin Bryce and former Cricket Captain Belinda Clark while unveiling the statue. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

Speaking about the significance of Clark’s statue, Mr Perrottet hoped it would inspire a new generation of athletes, regardless of their gender.

“Belinda’s statue, I know, will inspire many girls to not just become great cricketers but become great people and make a real contribution to our society,” he said.

“Belinda’s success will inspire young girls but it should inspire everyone,” he added.

Mr Perrottet said the statue was part of the government’s commitment to increase female participation in sport.

“That’s why we’ve committed more than $1 billion towards community sports infrastructure, as well as investments in programs like Active Kids and Her Sport Her Way to boost opportunities for women and girls,” he said.

“But there’s nothing like seeing one of our best female athletes recognised right at the front door to the SCG to inspire the next generation of elite cricketers.”