Andy Farrell says the British and Irish Lions can be "unbelievably proud" of their work on the tour despite losing their final Test to Australia on Saturday.

The Wallabies triumphed 22-12 in Sydney after a nearly 40-minute weather delay due to lightning, avoiding a series whitewash.

Jac Ryan and Will Stuart got late tries in the second half, but the damage had already been done by Australia, with Dylan Pietsch, Max Jorgensen and Tate McDermott crossing for the hosts.

The Lions lost their first game to Argentina in Dublin but had won all eight games on Australian soil, including a dramatic last-gasp win in the second Test last weekend.

But even though their tour ended on a disappointing note, they do go home with a series win for the first time in 12 years, when they also beat Australia 2-1.

And Farrell chose to focus on the positives as he heaped praise on his side.

"I know we're disappointed, but we should be unbelievably proud of what we achieved as a group," Farrell said.

"Lions tours are tough, and to do what we've done last week and put the series in the bag, upon reflection, I'm sure we'll be super proud of the achievements.

"These lads have been an absolute dream to work with. The legacy for us is in the changing room. The togetherness; it's been an absolute delight.

"We've played some outstanding rugby and that's accumulated into a performance that last week ended up being a moment that'll stay with us forever."

Tadhg Beirne was named player of the series after impressing with his performances in Australia.

The two-time tourist had his starting spot in the first Test questioned by many, but he used that to spur him on through the series.

"The medal is special, but the win is special, and we got to celebrate that last week," he said.

"Credit to Australia as they came out and took it to us in the weather, but we have still won the whole series, and that was all that matters. It's a bittersweet one.

"You just ignore it [the outside noise]. You've got to use that as leverage. When I saw my name on the board, I knew I needed to step up. I'm chuffed that I did that."