Communities across the Western Plains have joined in a show of unity and compassion following the deadly shooting at Bondi Beach last weekend, which has left 15 people dead and many others injured.

Local leaders, councils and community organisations have spoken out in solidarity with those affected, acknowledging that the shockwaves of the tragedy have been felt far beyond Sydney.

Bourke Shire councillors stood together to express their condolences, with Mayor Lachlan Ford saying the remote community stood firmly with those impacted in Bondi.

“We stand for the community in Bondi and police and first responders,” Mayor Ford said on December 15. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Support services across the region have also acknowledged the emotional toll such events can take, even on people who were not directly involved.

Lifeline Central West, which covers the Western Plains, urged communities to support one another in the wake of the tragedy.

Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Robinson said incidents of mass violence can trigger strong emotional responses, regardless of proximity.

“Many of us are shocked, anxious, fearful or angry,” Ms Robinson said.

“When our sense of safety and certainty is rocked, it can bring up some big feelings that can feel overwhelming.

“Even if you’re not there, it can bring overwhelming grief.”

Local political leaders have also shared messages of condolence.

Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said the violence had no place in Australia.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by the horrific shooting at Bondi Beach,” Mr Chaffey said on December 15.

“This is not the Australia I know, and this hatred and violence has no place in our country.”

Local councils offer condolences

At the local government level, Walgett Shire Council Mayor Jasen Ramien delivered an emotional Mayoral Minute at the Ordinary Council meeting on December 16, describing the attack as an assault on the expectation of safety in public spaces.

“It is difficult to comprehend the suddenness and cruelty of such loss, particularly in a place that for so many represents safety, joy and togetherness,” Cr Ramien said.

“This was not only an attack on individuals, it was an attack on the basic expectation that people can gather in public, celebrate, and return home safely.”

Cr Ramien extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, those still in hospital, and to first responders and civilians who acted with courage at the scene.

He also used the Mayoral Minute to condemn racism, antisemitism and hatred, describing them as having no place in Australian society or within Walgett Shire.

“Diversity is a strength that should be protected, respected and celebrated,” he said.

NSW Country Mayors echoed those sentiments in a statewide statement, saying the tragedy had shaken communities across rural, regional and remote New South Wales.

“The Bondi mass shooting incident and the hate behind it has shocked and impacted us all, with shockwaves also rippling across rural, remote and regional NSW,” Country Mayors Association of NSW chairman Mayor Rick Firman OAM said.

“Tragedy unites us as we support each other, contrary to the divisive goals of terrorists.”

Flags flew at half-mast outside Bourke Shire Council, and much of the state, after last weekend's mass shooting at Bondi Beach.

Mayor Firman said country mayors’ thoughts were with those who had lost loved ones, those recovering in hospital, and the emergency service workers and civilians who helped during the response.

At the state level, NSW Premier Chris Minns said his crisis cabinet would meet again as investigations continue.

“I want to be crystal clear that we strongly repudiate antisemitism in all of its forms and there is no tolerance for racism or hatred in NSW or Australia," Mr Minns said.

“And we will wrap our arms around the Jewish community and let them know that every Australian stands with them.”

Mr Minns also confirmed a gun register debate is being considered after it was revealed one of the two killers held six licensed weapons.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia would not be divided by hate or violence.

“We will confront it head on,” Mr Albanese said. “And we will stand together in solidarity with Jewish Australians and with one another.”

Cr Ramien said he wished to place on record his profound respect for the responding police, paramedics and other emergency services who ran towards danger without hesitation, acted decisively

under extreme pressure, and worked relentlessly to protect life and assist the injured

 "I also wish to recognise the extraordinary courage of civilians on scene who stepped forward to shield strangers, render assistance, and help people reach safety. In moments that could have driven

anyone to panic, they chose bravery, compassion and action."

"Australia, since its inception, has been shaped by people who came here seeking safety, stability and the chance to build a better life.

"That story continues, and it is reflected across New South Wales and within Walgett Shire.

"We live in one of the most diverse shires in one of the most diverse states in one of the most diverse countries in the world, and that diversity is a strength that should be protected, respected and

celebrated.

 Lifeline can be contacted on 13 11 14.