The passing of Councillor Steven Portelli on Australia Day has shocked his family and the community.
The City extends its condolences to the Portelli and Puglia families on the occasion of Steve's passing.
As we know Steve was a family-oriented person, a passionate advocate for the community and actively involved as a member of the Cockburn Council on many of its committees and reference groups, as a Council representative on several external committees, and on school and community groups.
First elected to Council in 2011 and again in 2015 Steve represented the East Ward during that time with a dogged determination to do what he believed was right for the community he represented.
Prior to his election to Council, Steve was a Neighbourhood Watch suburb manager ensuring that he co-ordinated the resources of those involved from the street level through to neighbourhood level in the fight against crime.
It was no surprise when Steve became the chair of the City's Neighbourhood Watch Reference Group where he continued the fight against crime, and the education and awareness of crime prevention by actively engaging with Neighbourhood Watch members, Co-Safe and WA Police.
Steve will be also remembered for his support of Roe 8 and other projects that he felt would benefit the community he represented.
As Steve is laid to rest, the City's flags will be flying at half-mast as a mark of respect for the contribution to the City of Cockburn in his role as a Councillor and strong advocate for the community in whatever he did.
To serve one's community is a great honour and Steve gave it his all.
Vale Councillor Steven Portelli - may you rest in peace.
Mayor Logan Howlett