A former three-time mayor of Maribyrnong in Melbourne has died, sparking a wave of tributes.
Sarah Carter, 45, was found dead in her home in Valley Way, Maribyrnong, yesterday afternoon, The Age reported.
Alongside her work as a councillor for Maribyrnong's River Ward, Carter was manager of the Australian Regional Leadership Initiative (ARLI) at Save the Children Australia and a board member of Gender Equity Victoria.
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She was the first woman to serve as mayor of Maribyrnong for three terms, the most recent of which ended in November last year.
Still on the council, she was awarded the title of Mayor Emeritus.
In a tribute to her posted on social media overnight, the council said it was "the highest recognition for distinguished service in local government leadership".
"Council is tonight shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former mayor and councillor Sarah Carter," the statement read.
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"Councillor Carter was a trusted and valued colleague and her passing is an enormous loss to our community who she has worked tirelessly to support over her 16 years on council."
Carter's death sparked tributes that crossed the political divide.
Footscray Labor MP Katie Hall said on Facebook her heart was "broken" by the news.
"Sarah sparkled. She was fierce and brilliant and bright," she said in a social media post.
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"Across our community so many people are grieving.
"So smart. Kind. Funny and warm. Sarah had so much love for our community and she dedicated her life to making it better."
Deputy Victorian Liberal leader David Southwick said her death was "tragic".
"Sarah was such a passionate advocate for many causes," he said.
"I wish her family and friends my deepest sympathies."
A report will be prepared for the coroner, The Age reported.
Carter's death is not being treated as suspicious.
