Any fears that the Tony Abbott Testimonial Dinner on Sydney’s north shore last week would be a rather maudlin or depressing affair were quickly scuppered, as the former prime minister arrived to something akin to a rock star greeting. With well over a thousand paying fans packed into the Miramare Gardens lavish dining room (where it should be pointed out both the food and the service were exemplary) the atmosphere was upbeat and celebratory in an event that was a fitting tribute to our 28th prime minister.