Illawarra Business Chamber executive director Chris Lamont is not completely surprised by the timing because when Mr Baird got the top job he articulated a very clear economic plan to fund infrastructure projects. It involved funding with the help of an asset recycling strategy.

Mr Lamont said the revenue and resources from that were just starting to flow into the Treasury coffers providing an opportunity for the NSW Government to start investing. The hard work has been done by Mr Baird who has taken some political pain..but will now not get to be part of the investment phase. But he always indicated he had no long term plans in politics and would likely go back to the private sector.

The timing of Thursday’s announcement means he is giving a new leader time to settle in before the next election in 2019. As well as prepare the next State Budget.

Mr Lamont said the Illawarra was fortunate to have good representation on both sides of parliament and felt Kiama MP Gareth Ward could have a chance of a cabinet position. “Gareth is a very active parliamentary secretary and local member. It is pleasing that both Gareth and Ryan Park probably agree on more than they disagree. In my experience they often work collaboratively”.

South Coast Labor Council secretary Arthur Rorris agreed the region deserves a local voice on the front bench. “But I would hope that with Baird gone we might have a bit of a rethink on the extreme right wing position on steel policy. Gareth has indicated he would like to see a more moderate position. Here is his chance.”

Mr Rorris said Mr Baird had gone into politics to do a job. “Privatisation has been his big policy outcome. Even though I don’t agree with it he has been quite successful at doing the job of big business. From our perspective..ot is just a shame that he now leaves a hospital system in limbo, has left a mess for his successor in terms of council amalgamations, the privatisation of health and a bit of a policy free zone when it comes to vocational education and training.”