The late IGO boss was a former vice president of the WAMC and spoke at its July luncheon.

Former president Kirsty Danby, who is a director of Platform Communications and CEO of the Port Hedland Industries Council, was close to Bradford.

She said Australian mining had lost one of its great visionaries.

"Much will be said about his extraordinary career. A true leader, he tackled every endeavour with total commitment," Danby said.

"He celebrated mining's rich history and championed its importance in helping to achieve a clean energy future.

"It was this belief that drove him to transform IGO.

"Peter was generous with his time, a strong supporter of women in mining, and did a great deal to help develop the next generation of mining professionals through mentoring and supporting young people.

"He was a dear friend, and I will miss his cheeky humour, colourful storytelling, and wise counsel.

"His passing is a terrible loss for the mining sector but devastating for his family, Peter's great love."

Current president and manager of Roy Hill's career enrichment program, Natalie Taylor, described Bradford as a great leader.

"Peter was a one-of-a-kind mentor, leader and ambassador for our great mining industry and will be deeply missed by all. His sense of humour and passion for a better world will be missed," she said. 

"He took his vast international experience in mining and pivoted towards the critical minerals needed in this age of renewable energy.

"Peter had an unshakeable belief in the transformative power of mining to not only improve the lives of millions of people in poverty, but to become a lynchpin for a planet on the path to net zero emissions by 2050.

"He was a strong guiding presence at IGO and an inspiring visionary for our industry.

"He will always be seen as a giant figure in the WA mining industry, a leader of great integrity and a very kind and generous man."