Dubbo Mayor Ben Shields flown to Sydney for emergency surgery after being put on life support
Councillor Ben Shields, 40, was flown to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital to undergo emergency surgery, after his condition declined last Friday.
NSW
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The mayor of Dubbo Regional Council has undergone emergency surgery in Sydney after being airlifted to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on Friday.
Councillor Ben Shields, 40, was found unconscious at his home in Dubbo on Thursday, April 1, and placed on life support at Dubbo Base Hospital.
While his condition was initially thought to be improving, a spokesman for Cr Shields said he had to be rushed to Sydney on Friday as his health had suddenly declined.
“Mayor Ben Shields was transferred to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on Friday, April 9 to have emergency surgery due to medical complications and decline in health,” fellow councillor Greg Mohr said on Sunday.
“Ben was operated on Saturday morning and is now in intensive care at RPA and will remain there for some time. Ben’s condition is critical but stable.
“Ben’s family continue to ask that Ben’s privacy be respected as he fights this battle, and that you please respect the privacy of his family.”
Cr Shields was found unconscious at his home by emergency services after friends raised concerns for his wellbeing.
Earlier that day Mr Shields received a letter signed by six councillors calling for him to immediately resign amid accusations of bullying.
The allegations followed claims Mr Shields had failed to follow consultation protocols over a proposed $30 million Bunnings development at the Dubbo RAAF base.
In response Cr Shields held a press conference where he defended himself against the claims.
“This is an absolute nonsense that is going on, I challenge anyone to point out anything illegal that has happened and if something illegal has happened — take it to the higher authorities,” he said.
“There has been nothing pointed out that’s been illegal.”
A day later he also took to Facebook and responded: “I have only ever done what is right for Dubbo.”
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