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Viral pic of illegal camper sparks local outrage

A viral photo capturing an L-plated Mazda hatchback sprawled across two parking spaces with a rooftop tent erected atop has ignited a storm of controversy in Noosa, Queensland. The image, taken at the Woods Bay carpark by Facebook user and Noosa local Martin Doyle, has thrust the issue of illegal camping and parking violations into the spotlight, prompting calls for stricter enforcement from exasperated locals. The uproar stems from a perceived flouting of parking restrictions and an apparent disregard for Noosa's efforts to curb illegal camping. In response to mounting complaints from the community, Noosa Shire Council implemented a trial "no-parking" zone from 10pm to 4am in August 2023. Despite these measures, reports of overnight campers persist, raising concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and the environment. After Martin shared his contentious photo online, lamenting the lack of enforcement, he urged the council to take firmer action. “Come on council get some teeth and get serious about this camping illegally business,” he wrote. “This was not the only one overnight camping in the area and clearly not homeless.” His sentiments echo those of many residents who are frustrated by the sight of carparks resembling makeshift campgrounds, complete with tents and – worst of all – human waste. While some sympathise with the financial burden of traditional camping accommodations, others argue that respecting parking regulations is non-negotiable, particularly in densely populated tourist hubs like Noosa. The issue also extends beyond Noosa's shores. Similar conflicts between locals and visitors occur in tourist destinations nationwide, from Newcastle's Horseshoe Beach to coastal towns in Far North Queensland. The allure of scenic vistas and budget-friendly travel often collides with the need to maintain order and protect fragile ecosystems. Image: Martin Doyle | Facebook | Noosa Council

Travel Trouble

Tragic news after camper missing for 12 days

Human remains believed to be that of missing camper Jessica Louise Stephens have been found by Northern Territory Police. The 35-year-old went camping at Kakadu National Park almost two weeks ago, and was reported missing by her mother on October 18. On Saturday afternoon police released a statement saying that they have recovered the remains on Nourlangie Rock, near where Stephens was believed to be travelling. Police also confirmed that the remains were located within the original search area. In an earlier statement, NT police reported that they found Stephen's belongings “a considerable distance from the walking track in harsh terrain”. It was reported that her vehicle was found in a car park near Nourlangie Rock. Acting Senior Sergeant Steven Langdon said that the search and rescue operation for Stephens, which commenced on the 24th of October, had covered around 140 square kilometres of the national park. Search efforts had been hampered by extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 48 degrees Celcius. Police have reported that they are in contact with Stephens' family and are preparing a report for the Coroner. Image: ABC News/ Karon Evans/ Getty

News

Camper trailer stolen with couple still asleep inside

A young couple are relieved to be alive after their camper trailer was stolen while they slept inside. After a long day of driving, Brock Momcilovic, his girlfriend Jedha Kinder and their two dogs were camping overnight in their trailer attached to a four-wheel vehicle at the Cumberland River rest stop on the Great Ocean Road. Ms Kinder was jolted awake to the sound of the car engine starting just before midnight. She jumped off the bed into the annex area between the trailer and the car, while Mr Momcilovic was thrown backwards from the momentum. Ms Kinder and the two dogs were dragged 200 metres up the road before falling out on to the road where she suffered bruising and gravel rash, as the dogs fled in the chaos. The carjacker then drove for 8km down the road, as Mr Momcilovic held on for dear life. "I sort of just laid there because I thought it was a dream," Mr Momcilovic told <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-08-21/four-wheel-drive-camper-trailer-stolen-while-couple-inside/102755074" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">ABC Radio Melbourne</a>. But quickly reality kicked in during the incident as Mr Momcilovic realised he had his phone handy. "I rang triple-0 while I was holding on," he said. "I was actually on Google Maps while on the phone to the operator telling her where we were heading." As Mr Momcilovic continued to hold on, he didn't know if his girlfriend or their dogs were okay, and he had no way of checking. "I was worried if I fell off, I was going to be pretty well done," he said. The car eventually slowed down enough for Mr Momcilovic to jump off the vehicle, before the car was abandoned near a nearby police station after the clutch blew out, with the carjacker taking off on foot with the keys in hand. The couple's dogs were found a day apart, one was found at the campsite, the other near a cliff, and have since been reunited. The couple have urged campers not to leave their keys in the car, with Mr Momcilovic saying, "It could have been a lot worse." Image credits: Nine News

Legal

Police finally reveal motive behind murder of campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay

Police have alleged that the two secret lover campers, Russel Hill and Carol Clay, were "childhood sweethearts" who had started their affair 15 years ago. In a summary of the case against Gregory Lynn, who allegedly killed the pair, police believe that Mr Hill and Ms Clay had rekindled their romance 15 years prior, and would go on regular camping trips to "spend time together". The pair allegedly drifted apart and had children with other partners, according to the documents provided to the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. Mr Hill was married to another woman for 51 years, and according to the police facts provided to the court, his wife believed that he had gone camping alone. “Those close to them believe that they kept their relationship a secret to spare Hill’s family from distress,” the police statement read. The pair had gone camping in Wonnangatta Valley on March 19 2020, and they vanished sometime after 6 pm the next day. Police alleged that Mr Lynn killed the pair after an altercation over a drone, with Mr Hill fatally stabbed and Ms Clay shot in the head. Police also believed that he returned to the area in May and November 2020 to try and "destroy" evidence by setting the pair's remains on fire. Their bodies were buried around 40km from the campsite in Dargo on November 2021. Mr Lynn was in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court this week for a committal hearing to decide whether there is enough evidence for him to stand trial in the Supreme Court. Images: Victoria Police

News

Gruesome twist in how secret lover campers were killed

When the bodies of Russell Hill and Carol Clay were discovered in bushland in February, mystery surrounded the exact circumstances of their death. The burned remains of Ms Clay, 73, and Mr Hill, 74 were located by Victoria Police Missing Persons Squad detectives on November 30th - just days after former Jetstar pilot Gregory Lynn was arrested for being responsible for their disappearance and subsequent death. On Monday, the Melbourne Magistrates' Court heard a ballistics expert would play a crucial role in the alleged killer's upcoming preliminary hearing, which is scheduled to run over four days in January. It is the first time any information on how police allege Lynn killed the elderly couple has been revealed in public. The court heard Victorian homicide detectives had compiled a whopping 773-page brief of evidence against Lynn, which included the fact that the couple had allegedly been shot before their bodies were burned and dumped in the bush. Lynn's high profile criminal barrister Dermot Dann, QC, said he he eager to cross examine ballistics expert Paul Griffiths, saying, "Mr Griffiths is an important witness dealing with the bullet trajectory and so forth." While detectives were keen to release information on the case to the public when Lynn was under investigation, few details have been made public since he was taken into custody. The 55-year old man from Caroline Springs in Melbourne's west remains in custody after being charged with the couple's murders. Image credits: Supplied / Facebook

News

10 vintage camping hacks every camper should know

Camping out for more than a night or two can bring the same challenges – ones my own family faced all the time, back when most people lived without air conditioning. When we’re hit with crazy humidity or rainy days, I’ve had to recall my mother’s old tricks for keeping the salt from clumping, the grill clean, and much more, so we can enjoy great meals made over a crackling fire. Create a dry box Invest in an airtight and waterproof container to store your camping essentials. I’m talking a box of matches, a torch plus batteries, first aid supplies, a few protein bars, and any other small, must-have items. This will come in handy if you’re camping in damp or rainy conditions. Invest in a small thermometer Place a small stick-on thermometer inside your esky lid to ensure that the temperature inside is a food-safe 1.6-4.4C°. And if you want to upgrade your esky situation, invest in a waterproof cooler light so you can see what you’re looking for after the sun goes down. Make your own ice packs Keep a few empty milk containers or water bottles the weeks before you head out into the wilderness. Wash thoroughly, allow to dry, and refill with clean tap water at home. Freeze and place in your cooler to keep the contents cool but dry. Save aluminium foil Save that used aluminium foil! Crumple it up and store in a zip-top bag to take along. Use it to scrub down the campfire grate or grill, clean your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, and to scrape bark off your marshmallow sticks. Keep your salt from clumping Take a cue from your local cafe and put a few grains of rice in your salt shaker to keep the salt flowing instead of clumping together. Using a plastic shaker with a snap-down lid is also helpful to keep moisture out and salt inside where it belongs. Don't forget your spices Bringing along armfuls of spices can seem inconvenient, but you still want flavour in your favourite camping meals, right? Instead, repurpose Tic-Tac containers and other small, food-safe tins and use them as makeshift spice jars. Store them in a zip-top bag or plastic tub to keep them dry. Prep what you can in advance Once you’re in the great outdoors, you won’t want to spend a ton of time meal prepping. Opt for no-cook meals or prep your ingredients at home before you leave. Pancake batter can be made at home, stored in a clean container or squeeze-top bottle, and kept in the esky until you’re ready. Get creative with your fire starters A proper campfire is made with crumpled paper, kindling and firewood, but that can be a lot to gather. Instead, you can get your fire started with some unconventional materials, like dryer lint (you can pre-portion this by stuffing it into toilet paper tubes) or even corn chips! Bring your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven from home Don’t fuss with multiple pots and pans when you camp or special camping cookware. Instead, bring just your cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Cast iron can withstand the elements and can be used over a propane cooktop, grill, or straight over the campfire. Grab some bright-coloured ribbon Stop tripping over tent tethers and running into the clothesline! Tie neon-coloured ribbon (or even fabric scraps) onto these cords to keep from getting tangled up. Use these old-school tricks and your entire outdoor experience will be way more enjoyable. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/10-vintage-camping-hacks-every-camper-should-know?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Travel Tips

Foolproof tips for first-time campers

When planning a trip, many people prefer to tone it down with a camping holiday in the bush, rather than embark on a city escape. For first-timers, there’s a lot of things that can either make or break your next camping trip, and it’s always good to be prepared for any situation. Speaking on Today Extra, expert organiser Anita Birges has shared her top tips to make your next camping trip a success. The tent is everything Anita recommends picking a tent with “plenty of room”, which can make or break a trip when travelling with large groups or with kids. In terms of pitching your tent when you reach your destination, Antia advises to pick a shady spot that is clear of hanging branches, and to practice pitching your tent in the backyard before you embark. Anita also recommends staying at a powered campsite that has access to amenities such as toilets and barbecues, especially for first time campers. Invest in your mattress Camping is no fun if you’re too tired to enjoy it, so invest in some good quality air mattresses that are easy to blow up. Alternatively, double sleeping bags are a good idea, giving you the chance to snuggle up with your partner on colder nights to keep warm. Go all out with extras Anita recommends going all out with the extras to make sure your camping trip is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Extra items such as a gazebo, folding chairs and compact table are sure to make any trip easier. As well as these extra luxuries, essentials such as a good-sized esky, first aid kit, cleaning items and an abundance of toilet paper are a must. Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Tips

Search for missing campers unearths tragic allegations

New evidence suggests that the bodies believed to be that of missing campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill may have allegedly been burned before they were buried. According to reports from the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au" target="_blank">Herald Sun</a>, the pair of bodies allegedly may have been set on fire within metres of where the remains were found in dense bushland in the remote area of East Gippsland in Victoria. On November 30th, human remains were uncovered in the Grants Historical Area near the remote town of Dargo, 320km northeast of Melbourne. The discovery was made almost two years after Carol and Russell went missing. The remains have yet to be formally identified, with DNA testing results expected to take some time. Detectives from the missing persons squad combed through the scene meticulously last week, using the same methods and relying on the same arson chemist who originally examined Mr Hill and Ms Clay’s campsite when they disappeared in 2020. Police are currently waiting for the forensic testing results of a Nissan Patrol vehicle that was recently seized during the investigation. Victoria Police are also searching for a trailer that was resold on Gumtree, which may assist the investigation. Russell Hill and Carol Clay were last heard from on March 20th 2020 when they embarked on their camping trip. Days later, campers found Russell's car that had been destroyed by fire near the campsite. A 55-year-old Caroline Springs man, Greg Lynn, has been charged with two counts of murder. Mr Lynn remains in police custody and is expected to face court on May 31th next year. Image credits: Victoria Police

Legal

BREAKING: Bodies found in search for missing Vic campers

Police searching for the remains of missing Victorian campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay have found human remains in bushland near Dargo, in Victoria’s High Country. They are yet to be formally identified. <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-arrested-over-missing-campers" target="_blank">Last week</a>, police had arrested a 55-year-old Caroline Springs man and were interviewing him in relation to the pair’s disappearance, although no formal charges had been laid. The man, revealed to be Jetstar pilot <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/suspect-named-in-missing-campers-arrest" target="_blank">Greg Lynn</a>, was stood down following his arrest. The pair, who it has been revealed were having an <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/it-was-a-shock-affair-between-missing-campers-confirmed" target="_blank">affair</a>, were last seen at a remote Wonnangatta campsite on March 20 <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-make-major-breakthrough-in-search-for-missing-victorian-campers" target="_blank">last year</a>. Their campsite at Dry River Creek Track was discovered burnt out, and Hill’s abandoned Toyota Landcruiser was located nearby. Ms Clay’s sister Jill revealed the relationship to 60 Minutes, saying, “They had to keep it secret, and in some ways, I feel that that’s why they went to such a remote place.” Neither Mr Hill’s wife nor his daughters were aware of the relationship between him and Ms Clay, with his daughters telling the program, “It was a shock when the police mentioned something about, do we know a Carol? But that was the first we knew about it. “We didn’t know anything about him and Carol being together.” Authorities revealed that charred camping chairs, a burnt-out battery, and a bucket used for Hill’s gas canister were located inside the pair’s tent, which had also been burnt. They believe it’s unlikely that these items would have been put there by the missing pair. “It certainly builds that picture for us that potentially someone was trying to cover their tracks,” Victoria Police Detective Inspector Andrew Stampers told 60 Minutes. Image: Victoria Police

News

Suspect named in missing campers arrest

A man <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-arrested-over-missing-campers" target="_blank">arrested earlier this week</a> over the disappearance of Victorian campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill has been identified as Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn. The 55-year-old from Caroline Springs, in Melbourne’s west, was arrested on Monday afternoon by special operations officers at a campsite near Arbuckle Junction, 166 kilometres east of Melbourne. No charges have been laid against him as he continues to be questioned by police. Jetstar has confirmed that the pilot had been stood down following his arrest. “Jetstar has been advised by Victoria Police that one of its employees is under investigation for a serious crime and will work to assist in this due process in any way we can,” a spokesperson <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/man-arrested-over-mysterious-disappearance-of-missing-victorian-campers-russell-hill-carol-clay/4f49420d-5d0d-41fc-8f8f-825086c6a3f7" target="_blank">said</a> in a statement. “As a matter of course, the employee has been removed from duty as a result of their arrest.” Authorities have alleged that the dark blue Nissan Patrol they have been searching for - and have since seized - belongs to Mr Lynn. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845854/car-lynn.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/57bd994d209c4e57a02c03c743a53008" /> A car has been seized in the investigation into Russell and Carol’s disappearance. Image: Nine Police allege Mr Lynn changed the colour of the seized vehicle to avoid being found by police, after they <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/huge-new-clue-in-search-for-missing-campers" target="_blank">released specific details</a> about the car’s colour, model, and time period it was made last week. But, the trailer believed to be attached to the vehicle at the time of the disappearance is yet to be located. “Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have arrested a man as part of the investigation into missing campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay,” police said in a statement. “The investigation into the matter remains ongoing.” Ms Clay’s sister Jill broke her silence following Mr Lynn’s arrest, saying she hoped his arrest would provide some answers. “Emotionally, it’s brought up everything during that time - a lot of grief and pain. We haven’t known how, we haven’t known why, they just vanished,” she told Nine News. “Now all of a sudden there’s a glimmer and we might get some answers. “It would be such a relief to have those answers, to have a memorial for Carol and Russell.” Image: Facebook

News

Man arrested over missing campers

A man has been arrested in relation to the disappearance of Victorian campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay. Victoria Police <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-23/man-arrested-victorian-missing-campers-russell-hill-carol-clay/100642224" target="_blank">said</a> in a statement that detectives arrested a 55-year-old man from Caroline Springs on Monday afternoon and were interviewing him on Tuesday morning. No charges have been laid. “Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have arrested a man as part of the investigation into missing campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay,” police said. “The investigation into the matter remains ongoing and further information will be released when operationally appropriate to do so.” Mr Hill, 74, and Ms Clay, 73, disappeared while camping in the Wonnangatta Valley in north-eastern Victoria last year. The arrest comes a week after <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/huge-new-clue-in-search-for-missing-campers" target="_blank">police released new details</a> about the case and said they wished to speak to the driver of a vehicle spotted near Mr Hill and Ms Clay’s campsite. Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper previously <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/man-arrested-over-mysterious-disappearance-of-missing-victorian-campers-russell-hill-carol-clay/4f49420d-5d0d-41fc-8f8f-825086c6a3f7" target="_blank">said</a> a person may have been camping nearby to the pair, since they weren’t camping on the best spot on-site. Police believe the couple may have had an altercation with said person at the campsite. Their campsite was found burnt-out on March 21, and Mr Hill’s vehicle had also been damaged by fire. A DJI Mavic drone purchased by Mr Hill before the trip is also yet to be recovered. Detectives have also made repeated appeals to the public for information relating to the pair’s disappearance. Last month, hundreds of people provided authorities with information or assistance in the investigation, police said. Images: Victoria Police

News

Huge new clue in search for missing campers

New clues have emerged in the case of missing campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay in relation to a specific vehicle police believe could crack the case. Mr Hill, 74, and Ms Clay, 73, disappeared while camping in Wonnangatta Valley, Victoria, in March 2020. Last week, police <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/police-make-major-breakthrough-in-search-for-missing-victorian-campers" target="_blank">released information</a> about a vehicle spotted near the campsite around the time of the pair’s disappearance that could be vital in their investigations. According to <a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/news/missing-person/missing-wonnangatta-camper-case-new-key-clue-as-more-car-details-revealed-by-police-c-4559804" target="_blank">7NEWS</a>, more details are now known about the vehicle. <img style="width: 500px; height: 276.1538461538462px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845615/253bc47108aad4b750bfeac0c51e60b0b6e2433a.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/2f0be3d1abd14e6e93b2946ddb1846a2" /> Image: 7NEWS The car is a blue ‘GU’ model Nissan Patrol wagon, and the five-door car is a Series 1 which would have been built between 1997 and 2001. But the biggest clue to help narrow down the search is that the car has an awning on one side with the name “KINGS” on it, as well as a PVC water pipe attached to the driver’s side. <img style="width: 500px; height: 264.61538461538464px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845616/66fe1f8fcaa9780c71f2702115d7046a189583a5.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/68f49608ac474ba9bf6d541d035ec9c1" /> Image: 7NEWS Police have said they want to speak to the driver or anyone who may have seen the vehicle at the time. “We can’t eliminate this vehicle. The person driving this vehicle is a person of interest,” Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper said last week. Police also released images of charred items that were found inside the campers’ burnt-out tent, with authorities believing it unlikely that they would have put the items there. “The only reason we can assume that Russell didn’t camp in the best spot, was potentially there was somebody already there,” Detective Stamper said. “There’s been some sort of argument and maybe it’s escalated from there. “It’s a theory, but it’s probably the best theory we’ve got at the moment.” Image: Victoria Police

News

“It was a shock”: Affair between missing campers confirmed

The sister of Carol Clay - who went missing along with Russell Hill - has spoken out about the secret affair between the pair. She revealed that Ms Clay and Mr Hill had taken multiple trips together to remote campsites prior to the disappearance last year. Ms Clay’s sister Jill shared what she knew about the relationship during an interview with 60 Minutes over the weekend. “I knew that she was going camping, not just on that occasion, but on other occasions,” Jill <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/affair-between-missing-campers-confirmed-in-bombshell-interview/news-story/bd33d5e64fc93b511065db574982ce30" target="_blank">said</a>. “And I knew that she was having the relationships and that they were doing these trips. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845438/clay-russell4.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/358a4d311d4d42f29fea9709552fad2b" /> Ms Clay’s sister, Jill, calls on anyone with information to come forward. Image: 60 Minutes “They had to keep it secret, and in some ways, I feel that that’s why they went to such a remote place.” It appeared that the relationship occurred without Mr Hill’s wife, Robyn, having any knowledge of it until his disappearance was investigated. Mr Hill’s daughters were just as unaware of any relationship between them “It was a shock when the police mentioned something about, do we know a Carol? But that was the first we knew about it,” Colleen, one of Mr Hill’s daughters, told the program. “We didn’t know anything about him and Carol being together.” Sisters Colleen and Carol agreed that knowing their dad wasn’t alone when he disappeared was of some comfort, but that their mum was struggling with the news. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845439/clay-russell5.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4d8ded169b2c499da4b77eaac6ce9c46" /> Mr Hill’s daughters, Colleen (left) and Debbie (right). Image: 60 Minutes “It’s been really hard on mum. Not only losing her husband, but also all the talk about Carol, and so she’s got both, she’s lost her husband and she’s grieving the loss of her relationship,” Colleen said. “It’s been very hard for her to get through both.” Ms Clay’s sister said it was an “extremely difficult” topic to talk about, and that she felt “very sorry (for) Robyn”. “Because she found out two things at one time. One that Russell was missing and two, he was camping with someone else.” Mr Hill and Ms Clay were last seen on March 20, 2020, and police have conducted extensive searches since. Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper believes the bodies of Mr Hill, 74, and Ms Clay, 73, are still within Wonnangatta Valley. On Sunday, police released an image of a blue mid-late 1990s Nissan Patrol towing a trailer that they believe could be crucial in discovering what happened to the couple. Inspector Stamper <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/search-for-russell-hill-and-carol-clay-four-wheel-drive-and-trailer-could-be-the-key-in-the-search-for-missing-victorian-campers/de8db0a2-4ce8-43dd-9d26-48d779e6afa1" target="_blank">said</a> witness statements placed the vehicle in Wonnangatta Valley - and near the campsite - at the same time as Ms Clay and Mr Hill. Police are calling for the driver or any witnesses who may have seen the vehicle to come forward and speak with them. Image: Victoria Police

Relationships

Police make major breakthrough in search for missing Victorian campers

Police have made a breakthrough in the case of missing Victorian campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay. Hill and Clay were both aged in their 70s when they disappeared from a remote Wonnangatta campsite on March 20 last year. Their campsite at Dry River Creek Track was discovered burnt out, and Hill’s abandoned Toyota Landcruiser was located nearby. Detectives say they have now ruled out the possibility that the pair staged their disappearance, and believe that it’s most likely they were murdered after an altercation with a stranger. Authorities say a car spotted near the campsite, a dark blue mid-1990s Nissan Patrol with a trailer attached, around the time the pair disappeared could help them crack the case. Victoria Police Detective Inspector Andrew Stampers told 60 Minutes, “Everything seems to point towards this being some sort of confrontation, which has started as an argument maybe.” “But my belief is that the person that carried out this is probably just an ordinary member of the community, who’s operating in a normal job, but carrying this significant load on their mind.” He said that police have received reports that a vehicle attempted to leave the valley late on the night the pair vanished. Witnesses say the vehicle was forced to make a complicated turn back in the direction it came because of a closed gate. Stampers continued, “That same vehicle is also spotted on two cameras at the top of Mount Hotham, consistent with where a vehicle would exit the valley given the closure of the Myrtleford gate. “We understand that initially, given the confusion around COVID-19 and state-wide lockdowns that people may have been reluctant to come forward, or that someone may simply have missed our repeated appeals for information.” Authorities also revealed that charred camping chairs, a burnt-out battery, and a bucket used for Hill’s gas canister were located inside the pair’s burnt tent. They believe it’s unlikely that these items would have been put there by the missing pair. “It certainly builds that picture for us that potentially someone was trying to cover their tracks.” Stampers encouraged anyone who recognises the car or who may have more information to speak to police. “If you are the driver of this blue Nissan Patrol, or you know who is, we would urge you to come forward – if nothing else, so we can eliminate you from our inquiries and move forward. “Both families are still desperate for answers about what happened to Russell and Carol and why, and I know our investigators are doing all they can to try and get those answers for them.”

Legal

“I'd be uncomfortable”: Police closing in on missing campers suspect

The families of campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay - who went missing 19 months ago - have spoken publicly for the first time, sharing their desperation for answers. Mr Hill, 74, and Ms Clay, 73, were last seen on March 20 last year while on a camping trip in a remote area of East Gippsland, Victoria. Mr Hill left his home in West Gippsland the day prior, collecting Ms Clay from her Pakenham home before they travelled to Wonnangatta Valley in his white Toyota LandCruiser. Mr Hill didn’t tell his wife that he was with Ms Clay, and was last heard from on November 20 via HF radio, stating he was at Wonnangatta Valley in the Victorian Alps. Ms Clay told friends she was going away and was expecting to return on March 28 or 29. Police believe a third party was involved in their disappearance and launched a renewed appeal for information as they narrow down their search. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844954/clay-russell.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/bf837acd1b0b4b11b68e2686ca14e3da" /> Image: Victoria Police However, Mr Hill’s daughters say they believe he is no longer alive. “I don’t really believe he could be alive. He wouldn’t hide,” his daughter Debbie <a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/family-of-missing-wonnangatta-campers-russell-hill-carol-clay-break-silence-as-police-close-in-on-what-happened/news-story/22eea65cb86ed84a6b45351551321438">said</a>. “It’s really hard. It’s not getting any better. It’s not knowing … you’re just stuck.” “There’s nothing to go by,” Colleen said. Ms Clay’s sister Jill said she believes something went wrong, and has a message for whoever was responsible. “I immediately knew there was something horribly wrong,” she said. “My message is that you’re undertaken a heinous act. You’ve got to live with that for the rest of your life. “We need closure. We need to know what happened and we need to know where their bodies are so we can put them to rest.” Robyn, Mr Hill’s wife, also said she feared the worst while speaking to NCA NewsWire in May. “I won’t ever see him again,” she said. “I can’t see how they will come home. He hasn’t spent any money, he hasn’t done anything. I just want them found, one way or the other.” Mr Hill’s vehicle was found by fellow campers the day after he last made contact. The vehicle showed signs of minor fire damage, and was found next to their completely burnt-out campsite. <img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844956/clay-russell2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/7607cfa3c5694886ad75b0a4dd2b96cb" /> Mr Russell and Ms Clay’s campsite. Image: ABC Since then, police have extensively searched the area, with members of the local police, Missing Persons Squad detectives, search and rescue squad, air wing, dog squad, and Australian Federal Police assisting. Police later moved the search 80km northwest in April, but the search stopped after detectives found two shovels in thick bush off the Great Alpine Road. However, police have not been able to link the shovels to the pair’s disappearance. Detective Inspector Andrew Stamper is confident the investigation’s twists and turns are leading police to a suspect. “I’d be uncomfortable,” Stamper told 7 News, in a big hint that police are close to a breakthrough. “Every day takes us further from the last time Russell and Carol were last seen alive, however I want to reassure the community that we are far from giving up. “Both families are also still desperate for answers about what happened to Russell and Carol and why, and I know our investigators are doing all they can to try and get those answers for them." To aid in their investigation, police are calling for anyone in the Wonnangatta area around March 20 to get in contact regardless of whether they say or heard anything. Detectives also wish to speak to anyone in the area around Howitt Plains and Zeka Spur Track on March 19 and 20, as well as anyone in Wonnangatta Valley and Wonnangatta Station between March 20-24. Anyone who sees Mr Hill or Ms Clay are urged to call triple-zero, while anyone with other information relating to their disappearance should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Image: Victoria Police / Facebook

Legal

Fresh calls for campervan ban in NSW

The NSW government is facing fresh calls to ban a popular type of campervan, after one of these vehicles caused a stir while driving through Ballina over the weekend. The vehicle in question was owned by Wicked, a rental company that’s gained notoriety for providing vehicles with offensive slogans on the side. <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/" target="_blank">The Daily Telegraph reports</a> when Lennox Head resident Beth Hansen noticed the vehicle parked next to a popular children’s playground, she started to feel sick. “I was just sickened, I felt revolted. I’ve got grandchildren, I can imagine anyone with children who was following that van and the questions that might be asked,” Mrs Hansen said. “It’s absolutely not wanted on our streets. “I understood there were moves under way to make that offensive advertising illegal.” Mrs Hansen says this was the first van she’s seen in a while with such an offensive tag. “What I had noticed was more were appearing with just the Wicked campervan sign on the side,” Mrs Hansen said. “I thought that’s good action is being taken and those revolting signs are gone but this is obviously not the case.” <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BdhKkeClnVE/" target="_blank">Appropriate... 📷 @benjmills_ #wickedcampers #vanlife</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" href="https://www.instagram.com/wickedcampers/" target="_blank"> wickedcampers</a> (@wickedcampers) on Jan 3, 2018 at 10:53pm PST </div> </blockquote> There have been calls to ban these controversial vehicles in the past. Last year the Blue Mountains Council told Wicked Campers they were prohibited from entering popular council-owned caravan parks at Blackheath and Katoomba. Staff at the site were given power to turn away any vehicles they deemed to contain, “misogynistic, racial and degrading slogans and imagery”. Byron Bay Council successfully implemented a ban in 2016 after failing to get State government approval, with then-Premier Mike Baird saying, “I don’t think it’s something that the state government should be getting involved in.” Ballina MP Tamara Smith said she was disappointed and disgusted by the quantity of Wicked vans still bearing these offensive slogans. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BFf1zgAElWG/" target="_blank">A post shared by wickedcampers (@wickedcampers)</a> on May 16, 2016 at 10:59pm PDT </div> </blockquote> “My office did receive complaints about Wicked campers in 2016 when another constituent Paul McCarthy campaigned to get Wicked to stop putting awful slogans on vehicles because children were reading them and asking him what the words meant,” Ms Smith said. “And that goes to the nub of why these slogans are so offensive – anyone of any age from can see and read them and the vehicles are right in front of people in the street or passing by houses. There is no choice not to see these messages the way there is with, for example, television.” What are your thoughts? Should these vehicles be banned?

Travel Tips

Tasmanian government flags potential campervan ban

Tasmania could ban the "vile, sexist and misogynistic" Wicked campervans from entering the state, says Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding. The vans are emblazoned with controversial slogans, often insulting women and girls and also depict cartoon characters using drugs and alcohol, and can spend up to three months in Tasmania. "I have been investigating possible regulatory or legislative options to stop these vile, sexist and misogynistic vans from operating in Tasmania," Mr Hidding said. On Thursday, Queensland Attorney-General Yvette D'Ath said the government would introduce legislation that would see vehicles with slogans that "fail to comply with determinations by the Advertising Standards Bureau" face deregistration. <img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/26944/shutterstock_354404441_500x334.jpg" alt="wicked campers" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> However, the legislation would only affect Wicked Campers' Queensland-registered vehicles, meaning there was nothing to stop the company's interstate-registered vehicles being driven on the state's roads. Meanwhile, another Wicked campervan was recently classified as objectionable and banned by the NZ Classification Office. The van has a picture of Goofy smoking a bong, with the statement: "Stoned!" The censors said it was another example of the chain using a well-known children's character to present drug use in a subversive way. Do you agree with the potential ban? What’s your take on the situation? Let us know in the comments below. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Related links: <a href="/travel/international/2016/07/6-best-animal-experiences-you-can-have-in-australia/">6 best animal experiences you can have in Australia</a> <a href="/travel/international/2016/07/5-of-the-best-national-parks-in-australia/">5 of the best national parks in Australia</a> <a href="/travel/international/2016/07/5-reasons-to-book-a-winter-trip-in-australia/">5 reasons to book a winter trip in Australia</a>

International Travel

Lion licks water off camper’s tent

On the list of sights you never want to experience as a new camper, we think the one featured this video is pretty close to the top. Francie Lubbe and her partner were camping in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in Botswana when they noticed something strange happening on the mesh barrier of their tent. Two lionesses lick water off the tents. Lubbe shows incredible poise to capture the remarkable footage – we would’ve been quaking in our boots! Lubbe posted the footage on Facebook shortly after. "What a privilege. It rained during the night and three lioness licking the water from the tent," she wrote in another post with the below photograph. We’re glad they saw it that way. We would have been scared out of our skins! Have you ever seen a lion, or any other huge animal in real life? How did you react and did anything remarkable happen that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments. Video credit: Facebook / Francie Lubbe No matter where you’re travelling to, making sure you know how to access your cash while away – and in the most affordable way – is very important. Easy to use and with countless benefits, the Over60 Cash Passport allows you to securely access your cash in the same way you use an ATM or credit card. <a href="https://oversixty.cashpassport.com.au" target="_blank">To apply for a card today, click here.</a> Related links: <a href="/travel/international/2016/05/aerial-tour-of-beautiful-flower-field-in-the-netherlands/">Aerial tour of beautiful flower field in the Netherlands</a> <a href="/travel/international/2016/05/10-gorgeous-photos-from-seaside-towns-in-italy/">10 gorgeous photos from seaside towns in Italy</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/8-photos-london-mysterious-beauty/">8 photos reveal mysterious side of London</a>

International Travel

Camper survives close encounter with bear

A man in the US has survived what must’ve been a terrifying close encounter with a bear, after the animal somehow found its way into his tent on Saturday. <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/" target="_blank">ABC News America</a> reported the man who was staying at Millard Campground in California, was blissfully oblivious to the bear clawing at him, and didn’t in fact realise that he was injured until he noticed something dripping down his face. In a statement, Altadena Sheriff’s station said, “It appears the bear scratched the camper, resulting in a laceration on his forehead. The male was transported to a local hospital where approximately 18 sutures were used to close the wound.” The campground was reportedly closed for three days while officials attempted to track down the bear, who was obviously looking for another picnic basket. A spokesman for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Andrew Hughan told <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/" target="_blank">ABC News</a> it is rare for black bears to attack humans. "In the six years I've been here this is the second one I've seen," Mr Hughan said. What a lucky camper. We’re glad we don’t have to deal with these kind of animals in New Zealand. Have you ever encountered animals while camping? Let us know in the comments. Related links: <a href="/news/news/2016/03/polar-bear-saves-her-cub-from-drowning/">Polar bear saves her cub from drowning</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/yeti-abominable-snowman-video-spain/">Is this creature in the snow a Yeti?</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/06/royal-family-attends-society-wedding-of-the-year/">Royal Family joins festivities at the society wedding of the year</a>

News

Inside the amazing retro camper you can stay in

Are you enamoured with the vintage style of a bygone era? Do you enjoy camping, but secretly wish you had a real bed, wifi and a bathroom? If so, we may have found the perfect accommodation for your next adventure. <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/577410/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_airstream" target="_blank">This revamped camper sits on Jennifer and Gregory's property in Wimberley, Texas</a>. It comes as a package deal with your own adjacent chargrilled fire, adjacent bathroom facilities and even a hot tub. The listing on Airbnb describes it as a: "Cozy retreat nestled in an elm grove along the banks of Smith Creek, on 10 beautiful acres shared with the owners. You'll really feel like you've escaped to nature, yet the fabulous shopping and dining of downtown Wimberley are only 3 miles down the road. It's the best of both worlds!" <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/577410/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_airstream" target="_blank">Listed on Airbnb with all its exterior trimmings</a>, this is more than a place to rest your head at night. It’s your very own darling, intimate campsite. That’s right, instead of hiring and driving a camper through the dust and mud to a non-descript lakeside location with shared toilet facilities, you could be here. Nestled under the stars by an open fire, but still in the safety of a suburbia-like location (with nearby shops to accommodate you when you run out of marshmallows!). The camper is as spacious and airy as a motorhome can be. You have to see the pictures to believe it though. Scroll through the gallery above and tell us, what would you like about staying here? Whether you want to make money by renting your place or to find affordable accommodation options and stretch your travel budget further, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_guest">head over to Airbnb now and have a look around.</a> Related links: <a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/12/iconic-destinations-falling-apart/">6 iconic destinations that are falling apart</a> <a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/12/best-countries-to-visit-in-2016/">Top 10 countries to visit in 2016</a> <a href="/travel/international-travel/2015/12/best-countries-to-visit-in-2016/">10 best-value travel destinations for 2016</a>

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Police finally reveal motive behind murder of campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay

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