Brian, it's with a heavy heart I say goodbye to my very first boss and rugby coach from more than 50 years ago. A joker who had a lasting impact on my life. When I started with you I had shit for brains and didn't know shit from chewed dates (your words). You were hard but fair and pushed me to be a stronger and more capable person. You taught me a lot of lessons that stayed with me through life, especially some of those very hard case sayings, which has got me in trouble a few times. I'm truly grateful for the time I spent with you all those years ago. Rest In Peace Brian. You will be remembered with respect and gratitude. Mike.

To Jan and all of Brian's family, I remember Brian as a good friend of my uncle, Neville Thurston and my father Grenfell Thurston. One time I can remember seeing Brian was at Neville's bedside, with his guitar, singing a country song. He was a larger than life character and I appreciate having known him and the friendship he always showed me whenever we met. The Martinovich extended family has always been a part of my life and Jeanette connected the whole Thurston family to the Martinovich family because her children are our cousins. My brothers John and Max and I would have been at the funeral if we could, but are grateful for the livestream facility which has enabled us to view it online. Condolences from Lynley White (nee Thurston) and my brothers John and Max Thurston.

Such a beautiful service, may you rest in love and peace. I have very fond memories of my teen years on the farm with Joanna and the boys. Until we meet again Brian. 🕊️ Thinking of all the family and this sad time x

We remember a big man — not just in stature, but in heart, in spirit, and in joy. Brian had a laugh that could fill a room and an obvious love of life. He was a great friend to our dad —and we’re so grateful for the memories they shared. Big man. Big laugh. Big heart. That’s how we’ll remember him Bog Te Blagoslovio Počivaj u miru