"You’re on the way out Johnny, workers are coming back," was the message a passing cyclist delivered to John Howard during his morning walk today.
Two animal rights protestors – one dressed as a sheep named "Lucy" - were also waiting for the PM at the gates of Kirribilli House, but were moved on by police.
"Lucy the sheep ... will dog Howard and Leader of the Opposition Kevin Rudd at all public speaking engagements in cities and towns across the country," minder and PETA lobbyist Jodi Ruckley said.
The stunt was designed to raise awareness of the thousands of animals that die each year while being transported "on disease-ridden ships" to countries in the Middle East and North Africa.