Latrobe councillor John Perkins, 68, killed in crash south of Townsville

A “larger than life” Tasmanian man killed in a crash south of Townsville has been remembered as a stalwart figure in his community in a series of touching tributes.

A “larger than life” man killed in a crash south of Townsville this week has been remembered as a stalwart figure in his community in a series of touching tributes.

John Perkins, 68, was killed when his car and another vehicle collided on the Bruce Highway north of Brandon about 4am on Wednesday.

Mr Perkins was rushed to Ayr Hospital but could not be saved.

The Tasmanian man was remembered as an influential figure in his community of Latrobe, where he served as a councillor for 24 years, was former president of the local football club, outgoing president of the basketball club, umpire for the North Western Football Association, and an “all-round gentleman”.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff shared his grief on social media on Friday, saying the community had lost a man with a “big heart”.

“A sad day for any community who loses a person of the good nature and enthusiasm of John Perkins,” Mr Rockliff said.

“Thanks John for all you did to support so many.”

His former workplace, Latrobe Council said Mr Perkins was always “full of enthusiasm” in his 24 years working as a councillor for his community.

“John was a larger-than-life character, full of enthusiasm for whatever he put his hand to,” it wrote on its social media page.

“He willingly shared his expertise in a variety of fields on many committees and groups, not only during his time with Council but throughout his life; which contributed to many positive developments and community connectedness throughout our community.”

Mr Perkins has also been remembered as an “irreplaceable figure” at Latrobe Basketball Association where he was president.

The group shared a tribute on its social media page on Wednesday, saying it was difficult to put into words the impact Mr Perkins had on the team.

“Our president, our MC, our tradie, our passionate supporter, our friend,” the tribute read.

Mr Perkins was also a valued member of the Latrobe Demons Cricket Club, Latrobe Bowls Club and Latrobe Football Club, which all shared special tributes to the man gone too soon.

“Everything he did, he did quietly and would never expect anything in return,” Latrobe Football Club shared to social media.

“John will be remembered for his generosity, his help when you needed it and his absolute love of his football and his community.”

A 39-year-old Giru man who was driving the other vehicle involved was not injured in the crash.

The Forensic Crash Unit are investigating and calling on anyone with dashcam footage around the time of the crash to come forward.

Originally published as Latrobe councillor John Perkins, 68, killed in crash south of Townsville