'Great Australian' dies in Melbourne crash

The former mayor of the City of Casey in Melbourne, Mick Morland has been killed after being hit by a car on Saturday night.

A former mayor in Melbourne's southeast, Mick Morland OAM, is being remembered as a "great Australian" following his death in a car accident.

Mr Morland, 67, was struck by a car on the Princes Highway at Berwick at about 9.30pm on Saturday.

City of Casey Mayor Sam Aziz said on Sunday the loss of Mr Morland would be felt for years to come.

"Mick was a kind-hearted and compassionate person, who always had his door open, and who treated everyone as a dear friend. I have known him since I was 18 years old," Cr Aziz said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Kay and his children, grandchildren and many friends, at this difficult time. He will never be forgotten."

Federal Liberal MP for La Trobe Jason Wood posted a tribute to his "really close friend" on Facebook.

"He was a tireless supporter of our community, the Liberal Party, Rotary and many more organisations in his time," he wrote.

"He was a truely (sic) great Australian."

Municipal Association of Victoria chief executive Rob Spence told AAP on Sunday that the news of Mr Morland's death was "awful".

"He is a very respected community member and a great councillor, and it is a great loss," Mr Spence said.

"We have lost a great friend."

Liberal MP for Gembrook Brad Battin said on Facebook, he was "simply a good bloke".

Victorian Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said he was shocked to hear of Mr Moreland's death.

"He was an institution in Casey, a great bloke with a heart of gold - he will be sorely missed," he posted on Twitter.

Community groups and friends have also joined an outpouring of condolences for the loss of Mr Morland through Facebook including the Rotary Club of Casey and Lynbrook Residents Association.

Mr Morland was first elected to council in 1992, and served three stints as mayor. His political career came to an end when he lost his ward in last year's local elections.

The female driver is assisting police with their inquiries.


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Source: AAP



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