The family of rugby league Immortal Bob Fulton will be offered a state funeral after a backflip from the New South Wales state government.
The government had initially planned a memorial service at the SCG, similar to that afforded to Tom Raudonikis after his death last month.
However, after widespread public backlash, premier Gladys Berejiklian has backed down.
"Given groundswell community support, I have overruled the official advice I received and make this offer in recognition of Mr Fulton's remarkable contribution to rugby league," she said in a statement.
"On behalf of the people of NSW, I extend my condolences to Mr Fulton's family and friends."
Fulton died on Sunday at the age of 73.
Earlier on Tuesday, Fulton's long-time colleague, 2GB broadcaster Ray Hadley, took aim at the state government after reports emerged that Fulton would be honoured with a memorial service, rather than a state funeral.
"The Sports Minister, Dr Geoff Lee, is MIA," Hadley said.
"He's about as useful as a sunroof on a submarine. You're a disgrace and you should be ashamed of yourself.
"If Bob Fulton can't be afforded a state funeral ... never in the history of this state will anyone connected with rugby league receive one."
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from WWOS https://wwos.nine.com.au/nrl/bob-fulton-granted-state-funeral-nsw-premier-gladys-berejiklian/433c7575-b913-4ee4-8dc7-26c57938b7f6
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