Thousands bid farewell to
Frilingos

Friends, family and members of the general public have turned out in force to farewell veteran journalist and broadcaster Peter Frilingos at a Sydney funeral service this morning.

Frilingos, who worked as The Daily Telegraph's Chief Rugby League writer and as a part of 2GB's Continuous Call Team, died after suffering a massive heart attack last week.

Large screens were set up outside St Martin's Cathedral this morning so the hundreds gathered outside could watch the funeral proceedings.

Peter's son Matthew, who is also a journalist with News Limited, offered a moving tribute to his father and thanked everyone who had offered their condolences over the past week.

NRL Chief Executive David Gallop, who was on the phone to Frilingos when he collapsed, said rugby league is poorer for the loss of a great journalist.

"He would always respect what you had to say and always acknowledged your right to alternate views," Mr Gallop told the funeral service.

"Chippy cared deeply about the game. This was never more evident than during the dramas the game has faced over the last few months.

"Peter Frilingos was a straight shooter and a decent man. Going to the football is not going to be the same without him."

Peter's best friend, Ray Hadley, remembered some great highlights of the pair's 20-year friendship and said nobody was quite like him.

"Like many, I am going to miss my mate, professionally and privately. I am much blessed for having known him.

"He was only here for 59 years but didn't he make a difference."

Those who attended the funeral will gather in Sydney this afternoon to remember Peter Frilingos and his contribution to his family, the media, rugby league and the world in general.

Peter is survived by his wife Maureen and his three children.