Dubbo mayor Ben Shields taken off life support but still critical

Ben Shields has been in intensive care at Dubbo Base Hospital since he was rushed by ambulance from his home in the state’s central west on Thursday.

The mayor of Dubbo Regional Council has been taken off life support but remains in a serious condition in hospital.

Ben Shields has been in intensive care at Dubbo Base Hospital since he was rushed by ambulance from his home in the state’s central west on Thursday.

Mr Shields was initially placed in an induced coma, but fellow councillor Greg Mohr said on Monday he had now been taken off life support.

He is continuing to battle several medical issues.

“Mayor Ben Shields is currently still in intensive care here at Dubbo Hospital,” Mr Mohr said on behalf of the Shields family in a statement.

Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Ben Shields has been taken off life support, but remains in a critical condition in hospital. Picture: Dylan Robinson

“Ben has been taken off life support but is still in a serious condition. Ben has now developed other medical conditions which are being treated.

“Ben continues to be cared for by the wonderful staff here at Dubbo Hospital, the family cannot thank these medical professionals enough for their care and compassion.”

At a community vigil attended by up to 500 people on Saturday night, family members told those gathered that Mr Shields had that day opened his eyes for the first time.

Many of those in attendance brought dachshund dogs, which are the mayor’s favourite pet.

Mr Shields was rushed to hospital by ambulance last Thursday, after concerned friends who were unable to reach him called triple-0.

Just minutes earlier he had taken to Facebook and written: “I have only ever done what is right for Dubbo.”

Earlier that day Mr Shields received a letter signed by six councillors calling for him to immediately resign amid accusations of bullying and “intolerant ­behaviour”.

Dubbo mayor Ben Shields pictured at Keswick housing estate in Dubbo. Picture: Toby Zerna

The allegations followed claims Mr Shields had failed to follow consultation protocols over a proposed $30 million Bunnings development at the Dubbo RAAF base.

“The council has no confidence in the Mayor and calls upon him to resign immediately as mayor and from council and enable council to move forward in the best interests of the community,” a March 31 letter from councillors to the council outgoing CEO Michael McMahon reads.

Making things more difficult for the council, Mr McMahon’s final day in charge was last Thursday.

Incoming Dubbo Regional Council CEO Dean Frost begins his term on Tuesday.