McLeod's Daughters actor Peter Hardy identified as drowning victim ...

An Australian actor has been identified as the man who died in a drowning at a popular WA beach last week.

Peter Hardy, best known for playing Phil Rakich in McLeod’s Daughters, died after being retrieved from the water unconscious at Fremantle’s South Beach on March 16.

The 66-year-old was brought to the shore and members of the public performed CPR until paramedics arrived.

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He could not be revived.

Hardy had reportedly posted photos and videos to his Facebook page the same day he died, tagging himself at both South Beach and Cottesloe Beach.

According to the West Australian one of the photos included a caption: “More reasons to be cheerful.”

Hardy’s brother Peter posted on social media that he was “devastated” at the news.

“Rest in peace my beloved little brother,” he wrote.

The Chopper and Neighbours actor had reportedly been in Perth visiting from London.

Friend Andy Burns wrote on social media that Hardy was “so happy to be back in his native WA”.

“Words cannot express how deeply I feel this loss,” Burns said.

“He was a superb actor, a wonderful singer and a guitarist. He also played drums and sax. He always loved performing in the theatre as well as film and TV.

“Heartfelt condolences to all his family and many friends over this devastating loss.”

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

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