The Liberal member for Port Stephens is in Sydney today to attend a party meeting this afternoon (Thursday, April 17) that will determine the new NSW Premier after the shock resignation of Barry O’Farrell.

Mr O’Farrell stepped down as premier following revelations at an Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry that he accepted a $3000 bottle of wine from a friend of the Obeid family and then head of Australian Water Holdings, Nick Di Girolamo.

Treasurer Mike Baird is firming up as the likely successor with the Examiner understanding that Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian has opted not to contest the position at the meeting scheduled for 3pm this afternoon but rather take on the role of deputy premier.

Mr Baumann said NSW was poised to inherit an ‘exceptional’ premier this afternoon, regardless of whether it is Mike Baird or Gladys Berejiklian.

He expected there to be some minor reshuffling in the cabinet but did not expect to be given a portfolio.

‘‘I’m happy in my position as parliamentary secretary [for regional planning],’’ he said.

‘‘I like working behind the scenes, I don’t have an ego.’’

Mr O’Farrell’s resignation just one year out from the state election has left many pundits questioning whether the Liberals can retain power in 2015.

Mr Baumann conceded that the party may take a hit at the polls but stated his main concern was for the Liberals to regain the trust of voters, adding that he was confident all of his own actions as MP.

‘‘This could have an adverse affect across the board,’’ he said.

‘‘But you don’t talk to lobbyists - you avoid them like the plague.

‘‘It’s probably a bit unfair on them but if a developer wants to meet with a minister, they can.

‘‘They don’t need a lobbyist to talk for them.’’

Mr Baumann said that any meeting with a developer was conducted in the presence of a person from the department of planning and with ministerial staff taking notes.

‘‘You make sure those notes are available if required,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s all about transparency.’’