SWAN Mayor Charlie Gregorini died when his tractor rolled at his Swan View property yesterday.
The accident occurred some time between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
City of Swan North Ward Councillor Kevin Bailey delivered the sad news at a gala presentation for the Bullsbrook Apprentice of the Year awards.Cr Gregorini was to have presented the award for best first year apprentice and Cr Bailey said it was a job the 62-year-old was looking forward to, having cancelled other commitments to be there that evening.
"This is a tragic loss," Cr Bailey said.
"Charlie was a great supporter and mentor though my time on council.
"He became a good friend as well.
"Council will not be the same without him."
Cr Bailey said Cr Gregorini had officiated at his wedding two years ago.
He was first elected to the Shire of Swan in May 1977, was the shire's longest serving president from 1980 to 1991 and then 1994 to 2000.
He was the City of Swan's inaugural mayor in 2000. His current term was due to end in 2011.