Hannay was passionate about encouraging new talent as an educator and mentor and across his career worked with many writers, producers and directors on their first feature films.
[5] In November 2012 Hannay established the Bathurst Film Factory co-operative to foster the filmmaker talent in the area.
[8] An obituary described him as "one of the pioneers of the modern Australian film industry, a passionate cinephile, mentor and loyal friend.
Hannay then met Australian journalist Mary Moody and they had three children together (Miriam, Aaron and Ethan).
[9] Hannay's brother Charles Hannah entered the film industry in 1984 after a successful career as an international corporate executive and restaurateur.