"As Mayor, and I believe I speak on behalf of this community as I know it, I strongly condemn this bullying and abuse," Ray Thompson said during his mayoral minute.

On January 26, 2021 the Lithgow Mercury posted an article in regards to a member of the community being bullied online for wanting to host an Invasion Day protest in Lithgow.

Brydie Zorz received both personal threats to herself and her family.

"The article was written by a most impressive local young person who was coordinating an event intended to present the perspectives of some members of the local aboriginal community in relation to how modern Australia is celebrated on January 26," Mayor Thompson said.

"It was a very articulate piece about the peaceful intention behind the event, the person's personal experiences, and the broader historical context.

"It also detailed that ultimately the event was cancelled due to the abuse and threats received."

The article included screenshots of the messages that were sent to her directly.

"A protest held in Sydney is not unheard of, and is a diverse and safe event," Ms Zorz said.

"A protest in Lithgow is exceptional, and results in death threats sent to the organisers via Facebook."

Mayor Thompson said it was undoubted that Council has a leadership role in matters of community wellbeing.

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"These messages, and subsequent social media commentary, are distressing," he said.

Mayor Thompson said Council provided a vast array of services and campaigns that aimed to address and raise awareness of mental health, violence and bullying.

"Everyone deserves to feel safe in this community," he said.

"Together, we must promote and uphold the values everyone deserves within our community; kindness, inclusion and respect for all.

"I would like to call on councillors, council staff, and the broader community to always condemn and call out bullying as being unacceptable."