The Dayboro community is mourning the passing of one of its local stalwarts.

Graham Court, from Mt Pleasant, was farewelled at Henzells Chapel on 16 July after succumbing to cancer.

He passed away at the Mater Hospital on 8 July, aged 63, following a 17-year battle with the disease.

More than 300 people attended Mr Court’s funeral, a testament to the popularity of a man who called the Dayboro region home for close to 40 years.

Members of the Dayboro Trail Riders, of which Mr Court was a member, escorted the hearse to the funeral venue on horseback.

In her eulogy to her late husband, Lorraine Court said he faced his extended cancer battle with courage.

“During Graham’s 17-year battle with cancer he never once complained and faced each new challenge with a positive attitude and a ‘she’ll be right’ reassurance for those around him,” she said.

“He was courageous and an inspiration to many, and his passing will leave a large hole in many lives.

“We were married for 42 years so it will be a hard road without him.”

Cutting his teeth repairing mechanical farm equipment in his youth, Mr Court became a dairy farmer following his move to Mt Pleasant from Lawnton.

Settling into life as a farmer, Mr Court soon began his work in the community.

He was active in the local pony and swimming clubs, helped with the Dayboro Rodeo, and judged horses at the town’s annual show.

He was also the director of the Milk Board in Dayboro and helped maintain Mt Pleasant Hall, the venue for his wake.

“We made a lot of good decisions in our life together but one of the best was coming to live in Dayboro,” Mrs Court said.

Friend and former workmate Phil McTernan said Mr Court maintained his positive outlook on life despite trying circumstances.

“Even in the past 17 years whilst Graham had cancer, he was always happy to see you and jovial and good company,” Mr McTernan said.

“Graham never complained about the hand that been dealt (to) him and was always good fun.”

Mr Court is survived by his wife Lorraine, children Belinda, Greg and Peter, and grandchildren Dakota, Crystal, Kaylee, Tom, Georgia and Bodie.