Mr Neville, who served as the Member for Hinkler on the Queensland coast for 20 years until 2013 and for part of this time as party whip for The Nationals, died overnight on New Year's Eve at the age of 78.

Nationals Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack says Mr Neville was a mentor who remained strong and spirited to the end despite his illness.

"Local people relied on Paul and trusted him and he repaid their faith by delivering for them year after year," Mr McCormack said said in a statement.

"He was everything an outstanding Local Member should be - he always put people first," he said.

"A real raconteur, Paul will be fondly remembered for his story-telling, good-natured jokes and light-hearted songs."

Australian Associated Press