The Manly MP, who is a father of three, was elected leader unopposed in a joint ticket with friend and Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian, 43.
“Today Gladys and I stand here uncontested,” he said. “It’s a party room that has come together, despite the challenge of past few days, to say we believe in what we are doing.
“We have laid a great foundation but I don’t want to just stabilise NSW – I want to transform it.”
Mr Baird, 46, said the party was shocked and saddened by the events of the last 48 hours adding that he believed Barry O’Farrell has done a “great job”.
“Gladys and I have both spoken to Barry O’Farrell today and he is in incredible spirits despite recent events. He wants to continue as his local member and I certainly welcome that.”
Despite the decision of Mr O’Farrell to resign after a “massive memory fail” over the receipt of a bottle of wine valued at $3000 from Australian Water Holdings boss Nick Di Girolamo, Mr Baird said he believed the former Premier was a man of integrity.
Mr Baird added he was a supporter of the Independent Commission of Corruption (ICAC) which has also claimed the scalp of federal Liberal Senator Arthur Sinodinos.
“Barry O’Farrell is a man of integrity but the community has spoken and in the coming days we will have a lot to say about how we’re going to bring that confidence back in government,” Mr Baird said.
Mr Baird would not be drawn on who would take over the Treasurer’s position.
The new Premier comes from Liberal blue blood as the son of former Federal MP Bruce Baird. He is married with three children who appeared by his side yesterday. His sister is high profile journalist and author Julia Baird. Mr Baird is also well known to have done a Diploma in Christian Studies before having a high-flying career in banking.
His elevation to Premier fulfils an ambition by the affable MP to serve his state at the highest level.
Ms Berejiklian, who is widely believed to have done a good job, said she was going to keep the difficult transport portfolio.
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