HAVING practiced medicine for more than 15 years, Dr Kristy Kostalas maintains a burning passion for giving back and building community.
A working general practitioner (GP), Kristy is also the founding doctor of Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic.
Kristy told News Of The Area it wasn’t until she moved to Port Macquarie that she discovered the true meaning of community.
“I fell in love with the region’s spirit and warmth,” she said.
“That sense of connection quickly became a driving force in my personal and professional life.”
As she got to know the area and the people, Kristy started to notice there were some real gaps in healthcare – especially when it came to support for women in regional communities.
Instead of just accepting it, she rolled up her sleeves and got involved.
What began in her clinics soon expanded into something much bigger, with Kristy diving into advocacy work, education, and community fundraising.
One of her proudest achievements is launching ToxTails, an annual charity gala which has now raised over $180,000 for Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services.
“What began as a small cocktail event has grown into one of the Mid North Coast’s largest private charity platforms,” Kristy said.
“It’s about uniting local businesses, patients, and community members around a shared goal of supporting women and children fleeing violence.”
Kristy also supports local school fundraisers, business groups, and women’s sports.
“Giving back supports individuals, uplifts businesses, and connects people in ways that build a stronger, more resilient community,” she said.
Looking ahead, Kristy hopes to see more collaboration across the region, from local businesses to health services and community organisations.
“Whether through joint initiatives, mentorship, or sponsorship, we all have a role to play,” she said.
“I hope to continue building platforms – like ToxTails – that give people a meaningful way to connect and contribute.”
If you’re keen to be part of the next ToxTails event, you can register at www.toxtails.com.au.
