And with Australia’s inclusion on the United Nations Security Council it would be a timely tribute to Maitland’s Doc Evatt – UN president 1948-49.

“I’ve had letters of support and I’ve had preliminary discussions with a possible sponsor,” councillor Brian Burke said.

The deputy mayor of Maitland refloated the idea at his first meeting of the four-year council term in September.

This led to numerous suggestions for candidates including Evatt – which Cr Burke said would be a fitting tribute given recent events.

“Where my first thought was sport it has been pointed out there are many other worthy people including Doc Evatt,” he said.

“Once we have a venue we need to set up a committee to deal with things like a criteria for assessing people.”

Coalfield neighbours Cessnock have already established their own ­tribute to famous sons and daughters in the council-owned performing arts centre.

“Maybe our planned administration building will open up some ­provision for the hall of fame,” Cr Burke said.

“My idea was never for a wall but a hall.

“[But] the main concern is where to put it.”

Cr Burke envisaged a hall with photographs of the inductees including a spiel on what made them famous and their ­connection to Maitland.

“As we induct them we can present them with medals,” he said.

The hall of fame was very nearly established in Maitland art gallery during Cr Burke’s last term in council (1999 to 2003).

While the idea faded, he is adamant it has got the legs this time.

“It’s not going to die; I am committed to making it happen,” he said. 

“But it’s not a main ­priority at the moment like the mall [revamp] is or the aquatic centre.”

Boxer Les Darcy was one of Cr Burke’s ­nominations and barefoot water skier Garry Barton another.

Cr Philip Penfold hit social media site Twitter with a few of his ­suggestions following the September meeting that included Evatt and actor Ruth Cracknell.