Catryna Bilyk showed courage as she fought for people in need: Senator Carol Brown

Most politicians chase a headline but a retiring Senator has been praised for pursuing outcomes for people in need. Read the tribute to her work.

Former Tasmanian Senator Catryna Bilyk. Picture : Mireille Merlet

Former Tasmanian Senator Catryna Bilyk has been commended for always advocating for people in need including those with brain cancer and “shifting stillbirth from a hidden tragedy to a national conversation”.

Her Labor colleague, Senator Carol Brown, said her 17 years in the Senate was “no small feat” and she had campaigned fearlessly to improve survival rates for cancers that had long been neglected.

“Catryna never limited herself to what was in the headlines,” she said.

“She never sought the spotlight. She sought outcomes.”

Among her achievements, she advocated for over $170m investment in brain cancer research, got NDIS access for brain tumour patients and twice succeeded in keeping Palliative Care Tasmania open.

A walk to raise funds and awareness of brain cancer was held at Dru Point, Margate. Hundreds enjoyed perfect spring weather, a lot with dogs and wore purple to walk. (L-R) Senator Catryna Bilyk (centre in black) organised the event and started the walk. PIC: MATT THOMPSON

Through Walk for Brain Cancer events, she helped raise more than $220,000 for research, enough to fund a small clinical trial.

“Catryna did all this while dealing with enormous personal challenges, including surgeries for brain tumours.

“I think most of us in this chamber will never forget the strength and resilience she showed during those times.

“Not just in facing those challenges, but in coming to this chamber and working hard weeks after, driven by that same fierce determination to make a difference.

“Catryna never let her own battles stop her from fighting for others.”

Federal member for Franklin, Julie Collins, has announced Labor will fund a desperately needed upgrade to the Kingborough Lions Soccer facilities in Kingston. Currently there are 120 female players registered with the club but have to share men's change rooms. (L-R) Senator Carol Brown, Federal Labor member for Franklin, Julie Collins, Senator Catryna Bilyk with some girls from the youth academy in the background. Picture: MATT THOMPSON

Senator Bilyk chaired numerous committees including on the Implementation of the National Redress Scheme and ensured survivors received justice and support and were not forgotten.

“Catryna brought that same compassion and courage to her work on the Senate inquiry into stillbirth research and education,” she said.

“As someone who had personally experienced the heartbreak of stillbirth, she helped break the silence that too often surrounds it.

“Through this inquiry, Catryna gave voice to countless families and pushed for national action – including better bereavement care, improved data collection, and stronger public education.

“Her contribution helped shift stillbirth from a hidden tragedy to a national conversation.”

As co-convenor of the Parliamentary Friends of Ukraine and the Parliamentary Friends of Japan, she “brought both personal passion and political weight to global issues”.

Senator Brown said Senator Bilyk, who retired from June 30, left “a legacy of service, courage and achievement”.

“She has helped shape a better Tasmania and a fairer Australia.”

Originally published as Catryna Bilyk showed courage as she fought for people in need: Senator Carol Brown