Mayor Petter Petty said councillors and staff were shocked and saddened at the news. Cr Martin and his wife Mary moved to Tenterfield in 2007 when he was appointed assets manager with council.

“Council’s flags will fly at half mast today as a sign of respect to Cr Martin,” Cr Petty said.

“In addition, councillors will observe a minute’s silence in his memory at the commencement of the council meeting next Wednesday.”