Bruce Baird, widely respected Liberal politician, has died aged 84

Former Australian Liberal politician Bruce Baird has died aged 84.

Baird is the father of former NSW Premier Mike Baird, who led the state from 2014 to 2017, and journalist Julia Baird.

He played a key role in securing the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games while on Macquarie Street, where he headed the ministries for tourism, roads, environment and transport.

Baird was elected to the now-abolished NSW seat of Northcott in 1984, which he held for 11 years, before entering federal parliament through the southern Sydney seat of Cook in 1998.

He represented the electorate for nine years, retiring before the 2007 election and making way for future prime minister Scott Morrison to occupy the seat.

Baird swam in the “Bold & Beautiful” swim squad, which regularly exercised in the waters off Manly and Shelly Beach. He was described as a “much-loved” member of the community by squad organiser Peter Anthony, and a “great mate” to those in the group.

“Bruce was a much-loved part of our swim community and a wonderful friend to so many of us,” Anthony told members on Friday. “Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who loved him.”

More to come

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