Cr Shields was rushed to hospital on Wednesday afternoon after a medical incident with family spokesperson Cr Greg Mohr on Friday "Ben is in a very serious condition... Ben is fighting for his life..."

The vigil was organised by a group of Cr Shields friends and associates.

During the evening Cr Shields was described as being friendly, a good listener and a councillor who takes on board the feedback from his community.

Dachshunds, blue and white balloons and even a 'Ben Shields' t-shirt were used as symbols among the crowd to reflect their support for Cr Shields.

At 6.30pm the crowd walked across the road to the council building with their candles lit, before placing them along the Dubbo Regional Council sign outside the offices.

The Victoria Park rotunda hosted a number of speakers who reflected on the memories they shared of Cr Shields, as well as the impact he continues to have on the Dubbo community.

Well wishes were given to Cr Shields, his family, partner and friends as they pray for his recovery.

Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) Inc Dubbo rescue squad president Neil Sturrock said he has known Cr Shields since he was a teenager, who even back then had a passion for politics.

"VRA is one of the many organisations to have benefited from Ben's support," he said.

"We are praying for his recovery, praying that he gets better and that we will see that smiling face again."

Playmates Cottage sub-committee chairperson Virginia Morley also spoke during the vigil.

"Ben fought for years to help a small group of parents. He taught us how to lobby, how to petition, how to fight that good fight. He helped us day after day," she said. "I'll tell you what, I'd want him on my team every day."

Councillor Shields also had a strong show of support from Wellington with speakers from several organisations of the Wellington community also taking the stage.

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