Livestock agents across Queensland were reflecting on the life and legacy of well known Dalby figure Eric Graham "Gravely" Henderson, who died peacefully in hospital last Thursday.
Aged 88 years, Mr Henderson was an indomitable face in the stock and station agency profession throughout the state.
"Gravely", as he was fondly known, had a career in livestock agency dating back to the 1950s, in particular his association with Tom and Jamie Knox at Knox & Co Dalby, later becoming Knox Henderson and now Graham Henderson & Co.
His great friend, Dick Boyd of Shepherdson & Boyd, recalled Graham's early years as a livestock auctioneer in Dalby when he was required to sell four and five days per week.
With his voice straining it was alleged that Graham put Vicks down his throat to soothe the pain, ultimately leading to the name "Gravely" being attributed to him by fellow agents.
Mr Boyd said Mr Henderson was also an outstanding judge of horses of all breeds and his two daughters Leigh-Anne and Alicia were outstanding lady riders in their own right.
In fact, Graham was a very handy thoroughbred horseman, riding in the picnic races at the weight of eight stone.
Graham was also a strong advocate for fellow Queensland private agents.
ALPA life member Mr Jim Geaney recalled the day that Graham, Russell Collins and 18 other private agents met in Rockhampton to crystallise and later form a Trade Credit Insurance scheme specifically for Queensland livestock agents known as Del Credere Agents Association.
Some years later this business was acquired by StockInsure and continues to be the mighty force and armour of protection for stock and station agents nationally.
The business of Graham Henderson & Co continues to flourish on the Darling Downs under family ownership with grandson Ryan Dellit at the helm.
Graham was particularly proud of all his family, but to have his grandson Ryan follow in his footsteps, and take over the family livestock agency business, was definitely a highlight.
He is survived by his wife Pat, daughters Leigh-Anne and Alicia, son-in-law Gary, grandchildren Ryan, Sally-Anne, Matt and great-grandchildren Louie, Innes, Bobby and baby Spencer.
The celebration of Graham Henderson's life was held at Saint John's Anglican Church, Dalby on Thursday.