Hundreds of Queenslanders have said their final goodbyes to former Deputy Premier Terry Mackenroth. The 68-year-old was honoured at a state funeral today in Brisbane, the service moving the current Premier to tears.

Grant Hayes reports.

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Labor Party legend Terry Mackenroth has been remembered as a loving husband, father, friend and colleague.

His state funeral was held in the heart of his beloved Chatsworth electorate, and was attended by a long list of dignitaries including Peter Beattie and Quentin Bryce.

Annastacia Palaszczuk,Premier: “Terry Mackenroth earned his place as a Labor statesmen, he was a lion of the Labor movement, a legend.”

An emotional Premier delivered a tearful farewell to the man who was an instrumental mentor in her early political career.

Annastacia Palaszczuk, Premier: “He has left Queensland a better place, goodbye my friend, thank you Terry.”

Family members remembered the man behind the politics.

Paul Mackenroth, Nephew: “As his nephew I saw the softer side of Terry, his devotion and great love of his family, his loyalty to those who stood beside him and his generosity.”

Mackenroth held eight ministerial portfolios over 13 years, and oversaw the Fitzgerald Inquiry as police minister.

Hundreds have turned out to celebrate the life of the man known fondly as The Fox. He was described as a master tactician, buisness leader but most importantly a loyal, Labor statesmen.

Terry Mackenroth’s death came just two weeks after he was diagnosed with a lung tumor.

Grant Hayes, QUT News.