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Byron Shire
October 20, 2026

Fund set up to help Chase Goldstraw’s family after tragedy

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Cinema: NAZA

A must-see, award-winning documentary investigating AI warfare in Gaza. Fresh from winning the Special Jury Prize at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival, NAZA, the latest documentary from Academy Award-winning filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (No Other Land), examines artificial intelligence and surveillance in Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

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Chase Goldstraw

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the family of a young father recently killed in a truck accident in Tweed Heads.

Mackenna Goldstraw wrote on GoFundMe: ‘In loving Memory of Chase Phillip Goldstraw’.
‘It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the sudden and tragic loss of our beloved Chase Goldstraw, who died in a truck accident on the 29 May at just 28 years of age.
‘Chase had his whole life ahead of him. He was a loving father, cherished son, devoted brother and loyal friend whose presence brought joy, laughter, and strength to those around him. He lived with a kind heart and a generous spirit, always willing to help others and put a smile on someone’s face.
‘Above all else, Chase’s greatest pride and joy was his beautiful five-year-old daughter, Elayna. She was the center of his world, and everything he did was driven by the love he had for her. The bond they shared was truly special, and the loss of her father at such a young age is a heartbreak that words cannot fully express.

Chase Goldstraw

‘The suddenness of this tragedy has left our family devastated. We are now faced not only with the overwhelming grief of losing Chase but also the financial pressures that come with funeral expenses, memorial costs, and supporting those he loved most. We have created this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden during this incredibly difficult time and to help provide support for Elayna’s future as she grows up without her dad by her side.

‘Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference and will be received with heartfelt gratitude. If you are unable to contribute financially, we kindly ask that you share this fundraiser and keep our family, especially little Elayna, in your thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support as we navigate this unimaginable loss.
‘Though Chase’s life was far too short, the love he gave, the memories he created, and the impact he had on those around him will live on forever.
‘Forever 28. Forever loved. Forever missed.❤️’


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Interview with Genevieve Clay-Smith, director of Boss Cat showing at the Byron Bay Film Festival

When Sonja (Olivia Hargroder) loses her mother without warning, the only steady presence left in her life is her grandmother, Doris. But Doris’s idea of stability means dismantling everything Sonja has built. For Sonja, who lives with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and has spent her life fighting to be underestimated by no one, Doris’ plan feels less like protection and more like erasure. Directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, Boss Cat is a vibrant, big-hearted Australian dramedy about independence, family and self-determination, anchored by a fearless lead performance.

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