Which is why a party in the park seemed like a fitting end to a sad day.

Brendan, nine, died last week after being knocked from his bike in Wheelers Lane in a hit and run accident that shocked the Dubbo community.

So, after a moving service at St Brigid's Church, Mr and Mrs Saul took part in a celebration of Brendan's life with games for the kids, a cake and balloons.

More than 200 people, including about 60 children, gathered at Victoria Park No 1 Oval. There they shared a cake dedicated to Brendan's memory and let loose 200 coloured balloons.

Mr and Mrs Saul graciously thanked everyone who had assisted them during the past week. They asked those gathered not to mourn Brendan's death but remember him for the happiness he brought to others.

Leading the release of the balloons, Mr Saul said it was not a time to say good-bye but "see you later".

Friends and members of the Dubbo Rugby Club opened their doors and hearts, donating their services and the use of the club's facilities.

Numerous businesses, community groups and individuals gave freely to assist the family to ease their burden during what has been a harrowing week.

School-mates from St John's and team-mates from the Dubbo Junior Rugby Club joined family and friends in a game of cricket on the oval.

It was an opportunity for the children to show off their skills and an effective distraction for the adults struggling with the loss.

As kids are want to do, following the release of the balloons they said: "C'mon lets get back to the cricket."

This call brought renewed confidence to the Saul family whose wish for a lighter-hearted day for the kids had the desired effect.