Key moments as Melbourne, and the world, said 'see you later' to cricket great Shane Warne

The world has said farewell to Shane Warne, a legend of his sport who was loved for his off-field antics as much as for his cricketing prowess, and a beloved father, son and brother.

The state memorial service at the MCG gave the public a chance to properly say goodbye to the cricketing giant almost a month after his sudden death in Thailand at age 52.

As friends of Warne the world over shared anecdotes, recalled fond memories and poked fun at some of the charismatic legend's antics, his enthusiasm for living well and lifting those around him remained a constant theme.

The service ran for just over two hours, and as the evening wrapped up, a rendition of The Prayer by Anthony Callea and a trumpet version of When The Saints Go Marching In was followed by the official unveiling of the MCG's new Shane Warne Stand. 

Key moments during the service painted a detailed portrait of the larger-than-life figure so loved by the Australian public.

Warne's father, Keith, said looking forward to a future without his son was «inconceivable».

«We do take comfort in knowing that Shane packed more in his life of 52 years, five months and 19 days than most people would in two lifetimes,» he said.

Keith said he was thankful his son touched so many lives in so many ways, and was «grateful the world loved our son as we did».

«Mate, your mother and I cannot imagine a life without you,» he said.

«You have been taken too soon and our hearts are broken. Thank you for all you did for us. And for being such a loving and caring son.

»Rest in peace, mate. Love you, Mum and Dad."

Warne's younger brother Jason said his older brother's incredible career was owed in part to a boy called David, who rescued him from drowning when he was a teenager.

«When Dave and Shane