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Byron Shire
July 15, 2026

Help sought for Byron local with inoperable cervical cancer

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Human-created hazards are responsible for most wildlife rescues in New South Wales, and researchers are calling for more prevention strategies to save threatened species.

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Krystal Pillwein

Friends of Byron local Krystal Pillwein, who is diagnosed with stage 2 inoperable cervical cancer, is appealing for financial help via a Gofundme campaign.

Katelyn Rew writes, ‘Our beautiful friend Krystal has recently been diagnosed with stage 2 inoperable cervical cancer, a life-altering diagnosis that brings with it the heartbreaking possibility that she may not be able to carry her own children, particularly with the recommended treatments of chemotherapy and radiation’.

Krystal Pillwein

‘Right now, she needs us in the same way she has always shown up so selflessly for others.

‘If you’ve spent any time in the Byron Bay community over the years, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Krystal, or felt the ripple effect of her kindness. She has been a constant pillar of support, always the first to raise her hand when someone needed help, and never asking for anything in return.

‘After the devastating floods, when so many people were overwhelmed and displaced, Krystal stepped in without hesitation. She dedicated herself to helping with the clean-up efforts and went on to become a vital part of the Woodburn Hub, supporting flood-affected individuals and families. For three years, she gave her time, energy, and heart to hundreds of people navigating incredibly difficult circumstances. That is who she is at her core, someone who gives, uplifts, and quietly holds others through their hardest moments.

Krystal Pillwein

‘Now, Krystal is facing one of the biggest challenges of her life.

‘She has chosen to explore alternative pathways alongside her healing, focusing on supporting her body in a holistic way. This includes nourishing her health through high-quality food, treatments, and lifestyle changes that will give her the best possible chance at recovery. As many of us know, these options can come with significant financial pressure.

‘We are coming together as a community to support her, to ease that burden, and to allow her to focus fully on her healing.

‘If Krystal has ever touched your life, or if you simply feel called to support someone who has given so much to others, any contribution, big or small, will make a meaningful difference.

‘And if you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean the world.

‘Let’s show Krystal the same love, generosity, and support that she has given so freely to so many.

‘With love and gratitude’.

To help, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-krystal-through-her-healing-journey-xkpzh?cdn-cache=0



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Try pickleball and support a great cause

Northern Rivers Pickleball Club are holding a marathon day of pickleball on Sunday, 19 July at the Goonellabah Tennis and Pickleball Club Reserve Street, Goonellabah.

Tree lopping accident

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The numbers behind Byron’s proposed rate rise

Byron Shire ratepayers are staring down the barrel of a proposed 33–35 per cent rate increase over three years, with Council arguing the extra revenue is needed to secure its long-term financial future.

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