Memorial to Harrison 'to be erected near Great Barrier Reef'

A memorial to George Harrison will reportedly be erected near his Australian hideaway on the Great Barrier Reef.

Harrison owned a Mediterranean-style home on Hamilton Island overlooking the Whitsunday passage through the Great Barrier Reef.

His friends and neighbours say they are intending to erect the memorial.

An unidentified friend told Brisbane's Sunday Mail newspaper that Harrison maintained a relaxed profile during visits to the island, which he used as a retreat from life in the public eye.

"He was very quiet and easy-going," the friend said.