McLeod's Daughters star Peter Hardy dies snorkelling at Fremantle ...

Family and fans have paid tribute to Australian actor Peter Hardy, after he was confirmed to have drowned at a popular Fremantle beach last week. 

Key points:Peter Hardy has been identified after drowning at South Beach on ThursdayHe was known for playing Phil Rakich in McLeod's DaughtersHis brother Michael shared the news on social media

Hardy, 66, known for his roles in McLeod's Daughters and Chopper, died at South Beach on Thursday after he was retrieved unconscious from the water, which he entered to snorkel.

CPR was performed however he was unable to be revived.

His brother, Michael Hardy shared the news on Facebook. 

"I am devastated to say that my brother, Peter Hardy, passed away suddenly this morning," he wrote. 

"This is the only means I have of contacting his wide group of loved ones and friends.

"Rest in peace my beloved little brother."

"My deepest condolences to you and your family. Peter was truly loved and respected," singer Silvie Paladino wrote. 

Close friend Andy Burns wrote he was inconsolable after hearing the news. 

"[Hardy] was a superb actor, a wonderful singer and guitarist, he also played drums and sax. He always loved performing in the theatre as well as film and TV," he wrote. 

"He decided to buy a canal boat in London which he set up beautifully with some recording gear and he'd send me guitar tracks recorded there to add backings to.

"Heartfelt condolences to all his family and many friends over this devastating loss especially his beautiful girlfriend Lysa. Our thoughts are with you."

Peter Hardy (right) starred alongside Robert Grubb (left) and Michael Cormick in Mamma Mia in Sydney in 2009. (Getty: Sergio Dionisio)

Hardy was born in Perth and was visiting from his new home in London at the time of his death.

He starred as Phil Rakich in McLeod's Daughters for 44 episodes in 2006 and made appearances on a number of shows including Neighbours and Rush, as well as in the theatre. 

A second man also drowned at South Beach on Sunday.

Police said he was unresponsive when he was pulled from the water in the early afternoon. 

The man was taken to nearby Sardine Jetty by a rescue boat but could not be revived.