Council
10 November, 2026
Flood of support for Mayor after cancer diagnosis
Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould has been flooded with messages of support after announcing on social media that he has a type of bowel cancer.
Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould has been flooded with messages of support after announcing on social media that he has a type of bowel cancer.
Cr Gould told followers on his Facebook page on Tuesday that he has invasive adenocarcinoma and that specialists were keen to have treatment underway “as soon as possible”.
“It has been a lot to take in, but I’m staying positive,” Cr Gould said.
“There’s not much point worrying about things I can’t control, so I’m concentrating on the things I can.”
Cr Gould asked for the community’s understanding as he undergoes treatment.
“One of the things I love most about being Mayor is getting out into our community and being accessible to people, and I intend to keep working and doing as much for the shire as I can – although I will need to cut back on some commitments and take things a bit easier whilst receiving treatment.
“Those who know me will know I’m not particularly good at slowing down or saying no, but I’ll have to be more mindful about how much I can take on.
“There may also be periods during treatment where I need to take a week or two away from work.
“So, I would ask for everyone’s understanding if I’m a bit slower getting back to messages, can’t make it along to as many community events as I normally would, or I am a bit less visible at times.
“I love what I do and don’t intend to stop doing it, but I need to make sure I’m looking after myself whilst I get treated.”
Cr Gould used his message to encourage followers to keep a close eye on their health and to take advantage of screening programs.
“One thing I do want to say is please don’t ignore changes to your health.
“Looking back, there were symptoms I put down to working too much, being tired or generally running myself into the ground.
“It turns out there was something more serious going on,” Cr Gould said.
“Bowel cancer is often very treatable – particularly when caught early – which is why screening and early detection is so important.
“It can also develop without obvious symptoms, especially in its early stages, so please keep up with any screening you’re eligible for.
“And if something doesn’t seem right, get it checked.
“Don’t put it off or explain it away as I did.”
Hundreds of people responded to Cr Gould’s announcement to wish him well and thank him for speaking out.
A number of people pointed out that Cr Gould had been a strong supporter of recent cancer-related charity events and only last month had his head and eyebrows shaved off at a fundraiser in Tahmoor.
Most simply encouraged him to take as much time as needed to undergo treatment, to rest and recover – and to remind him that he has an entire community behind him.
“You are an amazing mayor, Matt and we look forward to having you back at full capacity,” one follower said.
“Remember you need to put Matt Gould first and then you can put Mayor Matt Gould next,” another said.
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