With the cathedral at capacity, almost 100 more people watched the service from St Patrick's Cathedral Hall via livestream where there was barely a spare seat.

Mr Sheehan represented the community for a decade between 1982 and 1992 as Member for Ballarat South and was involved extensively in the community throughout his life.

Mr Sheehan's life had an impact on many people and a moving tribute was delivered by his son, Michael.

"Despite an often public life, he always made time for us and encouraged us with his wise words and a gentle smile," he said

"Dad's happiness didn't just come from his family and friends, he took pleasure in interests such as gardening and always tinkering away in the shed or backyard.

"Really importantly, I also believe he got much of his happiness in the satisfaction of helping others.

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"Just because he was fundamentally happy, he wasn't content with many aspects of what he saw and experienced as he went through life and he was very serious about helping to change those things, he just usually did it with a smile on his face."

Celebrants spoke of Mr Sheehan's acute sense and passion for justice, immense compassion and his advocacy in standing alongside survivors of clergy sexual abuse to ensure their voices were heard though the Moving Towards Justice support group.

Mr Sheehan was described as a leader of the community who lived his convictions, faith and principles in a very public way.

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As such the service was attended by current and former MPs including the incumbent member for what the seat of Ballarat South became, Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle, along with Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison, federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King and City of Ballarat Mayor Daniel Moloney.

Alongside current MPs, former MPs who worked alongside Mr Sheehan were also in attendance.

Former minister and treasurer Tom Roper said Mr Sheehan was a great representative of Ballarat.

"He was a great member for the Ballarat area and I had dealings with him on health, on transport and on planning. Just every area, he showed a great interest in what occurred here and I was lucky enough to be in parliament with him for for a long time," he said.

Dunnstown local Ray Murphy said Mr Sheehan was an important figure within the community.

"I've always admired the fact that no matter what political allegiance you had, if you had a problem, he'd try and help," he said.

"He was a fine man, very strong character. Most of what's been said is pretty damn right about him."

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