Wollongong's acting lord mayor has reached out to mayor of Christchurch to convey the shock, anger and shame felt across the city in the wake of last week's deadly terrorists attacks.
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David Brown - who is filling in for lord mayor Gordon Bradbery while he is on holiday overseas - has written to Lianne Dalziel, the head of the New Zealand city, offering Wollongong council's support and sympathy.
"We are shocked because we can do nothing to rebuild lost lives and angered at our impotence in the face of hollow deadly violence," the letter, seen by the Mercury, said.
"We are ashamed that a fellow human has placed themselves outside of humanity.
"We have seen in recent years however that the people of Christchurch are incredibly resilient and look after one another in times of tragedy. I am sure these qualities will help your community cope with the shock of the events of Friday.
"I hope that you take some comfort in knowing that the thoughts of people around the world are with all residents of Christchurch."
On Monday, the flags outside the council's Burelli Street headquarters were flown at half-mast, out of respect to those killed when Australian-born gunman - and alleged terrorist - shot dead dozens of people at places of worship in the New Zealand city.
The attacks at the Al Noor and Linwood mosques, in central Christchurch, have so far left 50 people dead and another 50 injured.
A scheduled councillor briefing was suspended on Monday afternoon, so the city's elected representatives could attend the peace vigil in the Crown Street Mall.