Shellharbour City Council joins the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty The Queen and giving thanks for her extraordinary service over her 70-year reign.
As a mark of mourning and respect, and in accordance with protocol, Council is flying all Shellharbour Civic Centre flags at half-mast.
Council has also shared a link on its Facebook page to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet's condolence form, which will be collated and sent to Buckingham Palace.
For those who would prefer to leave a handwritten message, a physical copy is available at the Shellharbour Civic Centre and Shellharbour City Libraries.
Mayor Chris Homer and Deputy Mayor Councillor Kellie Marsh expressed their deep sadness and said that Her Majesty was much loved and admired during her 70-year reign as Australia's Head of State.
Mayor Homer and Cr Marsh extended their sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the Commonwealth of Nations.
"Queen Elizabeth II was a cherished and humble sovereign who was loved world-wide for her dedication to service and duty," Mayor Homer said.
"Her warm character, devotion to the Commonwealth and her endearing smile will remain in our hearts for generations to come.
Deputy Mayor Councillor Kellie Marsh said Her Majesty's passing marked the close of the second Elizabethan era, with a new chapter in world history about to unfold with the ascension of King Charles III to the throne.
"Queen Elizabeth II served as monarch for 70 years and 215 days and witnessed enormous social change during her reign. She swore in 16 British Prime Ministers including Winston Churchill, swearing in new Prime Minister Liz Truss just days before her passing," Cr Marsh said.
"She was such a wonderful role model for women throughout her lifetime, especially in the male-dominated world in which she ascended to the throne in 1952. Her Majesty was the epitome of selflessness and service. The empathy and care she demonstrated to people was extraordinary," she said.
Cr Marsh said that during the World War II, Her Majesty proudly wore the uniform of the British Army. She celebrated 73 years of marriage to Prince Phillip and was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren and great grandmother to 12 great grandchildren.
"She visited Australia 16 times, including a visit to the Albion Park Aerodrome (now Shellharbour Airport) in 1970 where she and Prince Phillip were met with cheers from locals eager to get a glimpse of their Queen," Cr Marsh said.
"She passed away at her beloved Balmoral Castle and we now enter 10 days of mourning. I know there are countless local people in the Shellharbour City who would be feeling great sadness at the Queen's passing. The Mayor and I send our sincere condolences to our community."
