‘‘The pages in the condolence book are filling rapidly, we had a lot of people coming through,’’ Bradman Museum curator David Wells said.

The Bradman Museum benefited over the years from Benaud’s personal touch with the former Test cricketer offering his knowledge and advice on displays and memorabilia. 

Mr Wells fondly remembered Benaud as a true gentleman of the game.

‘‘When he spoke to you he gave you his full attention, he was always very genial and warm,’’ he said.

‘‘He was someone who placed a high emphasis on manners and etiquette.’’

Even for those with minimal interest in cricket, Benaud’s unique voice  coming from the television defined summer in Australia for decades. 

According to Mr Wells, it was Benaud’s all-round ability that cemented his iconic status.

 ‘‘He’s irreplaceable because he’s been a Test player and Test captain for Australia and a journalist, then a cricket broadcaster for over 30 years,’’ he said.

‘‘He’s the voice of Australian cricket to many people.’’

Playing before cricket’s professional era, Benaud’s day job was a journalist.

He started as a cadet at The Sun covering the police round before moving into sport and later as cricket commentator where his famous call of  ‘‘Marvellous!’’ evolved into a cricket catchphrase. 

Mr Wells said Benaud paralleled Bradman as a true icon, not just for his commentary or skill on the pitch but for his quiet mentorship of younger players. 

‘‘He did a lot of work behind the scenes, people wouldn’t realise.

‘We put a lot of players on pedestals just because they play cricket well, but he had everything – personality and character and intellect.’’