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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

Kochie's big Carols in the Domain surprise

The biggest festive event of the year is back, with Carols in the Domain returning in full force. Hosted by Sunrise presenters Kochie and Nat Barr, the country's biggest musicians will be performing the biggest festive hits on the 40th anniversary of the iconic event. With the event returning in full swing, Kochie and Nat are looking forward to getting in the festive spirit. ''Kochie and I can't wait, and I think Australia can't wait too,'' says Nat. ''Last year we needed Carols to brighten up our year after Covid, this year we're all back to normal, but everyone I talk to says they've been shocked at the frantic pace of life." ''I think we all need a break and Carols will signal that it's really Christmas and we can join with our families and friends and relax, reflect and be thankful.'' ''I'm absolutely busting for it,'' Kochie adds. Joining the pair this year will be performers including Todd McKenney, Rhonda Burchmore, The Wiggles, Mark Vincent, Lachie Gill, Paulini and more, with special guest via satellite, Grammy-winning singer Andrea Bocelli performing a duet with his daughter Virginia. Nat has promised there will be big surprises on the night, but kept tight-lipped about what viewers can expect. ''I can't tell you what they are because then they wouldn't be surprises,'' Nat says. ''But I just think the whole night is beautiful (with) gorgeous gowns, incredible singing, some of Australia's most powerful voices combined with an amazing orchestra and choir." ''I really do love being part of it and I know Australia will love what we've got planned for this year.'' The duo said viewers shouldn't hold their breath for a duet performance, but Kochie said he might belt out a tune. ''I belt out Holy City when Mark Vincent is singing it and I reckon I've nailed it after so many years,'' he jokes. ''I reckon I sound pretty good, Nat disagrees, so I think it's time for Australia to decide.'' Carols in the Domain will be airing on Saturday December 17th on Channel Seven. Image credits: Supplied

Music

Final tuning for Pacific Explorer

Pacific Explorer is almost ready to set sail after almost two years of no cruises with one thing left to do. The ship’s five beautiful pianos have required some fine tuning from piano tuner Carol Johns after the keys were left abandoned during lockdown. The five pianos sat inside the ship without sounding a note and professional musician Carol knew it was her time to shine and tune them. “After nearly two and a half years, they’ve got themselves to under concert pitch so you have to lift them back up to get them in tune,” Carol said. “That happens with any piano but it’s exaggerated because of the time and being on a ship is a tough time for a piano. “It takes about two hours to tune a piano if you want to make it really beautiful because there are about 88 notes but there are more than 220 strings and they’ve all got to be tuned, some of them more than once.” Before cruises were banned from Australian shores, there were regular “ship calls” to ensure the pianos were always tuned. Image: Supplied

Cruising

Man who abducted wheelchair-bound partner dies two days after her

A man who <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-charged-with-abducting-wheelchair-bound-partner" target="_blank" rel="noopener">abducted his wheelchair-bound partner</a> from a Perth nursing home and attempted to cross the border with her has died just two days after her. Ralph “Terry” Gibbs, 80, died after his car collided with a utility truck on Wednesday morning south of Bowen, in Queensland’s north. His death came just 48 hours after that of 84-year-old Carol Lisle, his partner of 15 years. The 84-year-old, passed away in an aged care facility in Mandurah, Western Australia, where she was living with dementia and Parkinson’s disease. They died just a week after Mr Gibbs appeared before a Perth magistrate over charges of deprivation of liberty and endangering Ms Lisle’s life, after he took her out of her aged care home in January and tried to drive her across the border during heatwave conditions. He received a seven-month suspended sentence and a restraining order to prevent him from contacting Ms Lisle. Outside court, Mr Gibbs described Ms Lisle as “my little sweetheart” and said he fought “for over a year to get her back so we can see each other because she has dementia and may not last much longer”. A close friend of Ms Lisle, who didn’t want to be named, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-02-24/ralph-gibbs-kidnapped-partner-from-nursing-home-dies-after-her/100856128" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told the ABC</a> she passed away in the early hours on Monday morning. Having known Ms Lisle for 24 years, the friend said she was loved and well-looked after at the nursing home, and that she had been very unwell since she was taken by Mr Gibbs in January. “Carol’s friends are devastated at her passing and believe the separation from her loved ones contributed to her death,” the friend said. In a <a href="https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2022/02/23/fatal-crash-bowen-4/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a>, Queensland Police said Mr Gibbs was driving north along the Bruce Highway early on Wednesday morning when he collided with the other vehicle which was being driven by a 60-year-old man. Gibbs died at the scene of the crash, while the other driver was airlifted to a local hospital and is believed to be in a serious condition. Queensland’s Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the incident. Image: WA Police

Caring

Tom Walker discusses carols performance with Kate Middleton

Scottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker has discussed his "top secret" rehearsal with the Duchess of Cambridge ahead of their performance together at the Royal Carols in December. Appearing on Good Morning Britain, Tom said Kate Middleton is "fantastic" and a "really talented musician". Kate played piano for Tom for his emotional performance of the song For Those Who Can't Be Here at the carols event at Westminster Abbey, surprising royal fans with her musical talent. "We had a rehearsal together, a 'top-secret' rehearsal, just to make sure we were both comfortable with playing with each other and so she could get her head around the arrangement of the song," he explained. Walker explained that the rehearsal took place at London's Metropolis Studios, and how he was sworn to secrecy. <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: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CX6kRgzhTCb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CX6kRgzhTCb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Tom Walker (@iamtomwalker)</a> </div> </blockquote> "I'm sure I'm allowed to say that at this point. At the time it was very top secret," he continues. The duchess, who also hosted the event, wrote on Instagram, "Together at Christmas brought together so many inspirational individuals for a night of wonderful carols and music. "But above all, it was about celebrating the goodwill, acts of kindness, love, empathy, and compassion which have helped people come through these difficult times. "Thank you to all involved for making this happen." In an interview with <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/17149039/tom-walker-owes-kate-middleton-big-time/" target="_blank">The Sun</a>, Tom said his performance with the duchess was a "wonderful experience" and described her as "so warm". "She made the effort to thank all the musicians but it was us who felt so grateful to be part of something so special," he explains. Royal fans were stunned by Kate's hidden talent, with one person writing on social media, "She plays the piano too? Now I love her even more." Check out the performance below. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yw95R0Vl4_c" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Image credits: Instagram @iamtomwalker

Music

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

"Incredible shock": Outpouring after murder charges finally laid

A man arrested over the disappearance of Victorian campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay has been charged with two counts of murder. After three days of questioning, police confirmed they had charged 55-year-old pilot Gregory Lynn on Thursday. Victorian Police Crime Command Assistant Commissioner Bob Hill said the investigation was ongoing, and that police would continue to search for Mr Hill and Ms Clay’s remains. “Police are hopeful that we will be able to locate the deceased and provide ultimate closure to the families,” he <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-25/greg-lynn-charged-with-murder-of-russell-hill-and-carol-clay/100647508" target="_blank">said on Thursday</a>. “My heartfelt thoughts are with both the Hill and Clay families.” Mr Lynn <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-arrested-over-missing-campers" target="_blank">was arrested</a> at a campsite on Monday afternoon by special operations officers, before being questioned by detectives on Tuesday. Ms Clay’s sister, Jill Walker, said she welcomed the arrest, which occurred 55 kilometres from where Ms Clay and Mr Hill disappeared. Ms Clay and Mr Hill were last heard from in March last year, after the pair travelled to a campsite in Wonnangatta Valley. “We’ve been holding this together for 20 months now … 20 months is a long time,” she told <a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/news/crime-melbourne/man-charged-with-two-counts-of-murder-over-missing-victorian-wonnangatta-camper-disappearance-c-4682123" target="_blank">7NEWS</a>. “It’s been an incredible shock and because it’s been such a mystery, it’s been a bit unfathomable.” Police have also seized Mr Lynn’s Nissan Patrol for forensic testing, and are appealing for information about the whereabouts of a blue trailer that was attached. Assistant commissioner Hill said it was believed that the trailer had been sold online via Gumtree. Jetstar Airways, Mr Lynn’s employer, confirmed that <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/suspect-named-in-missing-campers-arrest" target="_blank">he had been suspended</a> following his arrest. He is due to face Sale Magistrates Court in Gippsland on Friday. UPDATE: After appearing in front of the court via video link, Mr Lynn has been remanded in custody. Mr Lynn said nothing during the hearing, which ran for just a few minutes, and he didn’t apply for bail. He is due to return to court on May 31, 2022, with police requesting time to prepare their evidence against him. “The dates are probably elongated because it’s a fairly substantial investigation,” Mr Lynn’s lawyer, Chris McLennan, <a rel="noopener" href="https://7news.com.au/news/melbourne/pilot-greg-lynn-charged-with-murder-of-missing-campers-fronts-sale-court-via-video-link-c-4708795" target="_blank">told</a> the court via video link. Melanie Lynn, Mr Lynn’s wife, also appeared on the video link with her camera off. The hearing comes as police begin searching Victoria’s Great Alpine region for the remains of the campers, after establishing a crime scene in the area on Thursday. Assistant Commissioner Hill said the investigation was “far from over”. He appealed for information about the missing trailer formerly attached to the seized vehicle, and said it was sold on Gumtree between March and July 2020. Images: Victorian Police, Facebook

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

Duchess Kate’s mum Carole reveals what Christmas will be like at the Middletons

Carole Middleton has given royal fans a glimpse into how Prince William, Duchess Kate and their three adorable children will be spending Christmas Day this year. In a new interview with the <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/">Telegraph,</a> the 63-year-old grandma discussed the measures they take to ensure their £4.7million mansion in Bucklebury is looking festive. To get Prince George, Princess Charlotte and now Prince Louis excited for Christmas, Carole likes to put several trees indoors, saying “she likes to have as many as possible in the house". The royal grandchildren will also have their own tree in their room “so that they can decorate it themselves”. Carole revealed that she also has one “fashionable” tree with a clear theme, another decorated with sentimental baubles from over the years and a final tree that the grandchildren can decorate however they want. Kate’s mother also admitted that it takes a lot of planning to take care of everything in the lead up to the holidays, with the self-described “list-maker” saying that she began planning just after Halloween. The Middleton family spend Christmas Day by attending church in the morning before going on a walk and then returning home to open up their presents together. The clan will be served smoked salmon for lunch with champagne and then feast on a traditional Christmas dinner in the evening. Since Carole turned flexitarian, there will also be vegan options for all their holiday meals. Carole told the Telegraph: “I’ve recently gone vegan. Or maybe that should be flexitarian. “If I go to someone’s house for dinner, I’m not going to make a fuss. For Christmas, I’d probably have two options – very traditional and something vegan.” Carole also revealed that her three Christmas essentials are mince pies, mulled wine and mistletoe. Although the day takes a lot of effort, Carole said it’s important to remember what it is all about. “Don’t get hung up on perfection. Often it’s the mistakes that make things memorable.” Although her eldest grandson Prince George will be king one day, Carole described herself as a “normal” and “hands-on” grandmother, whose family comes first in her life. Carole and husband Michael Middleton are also parents to Pippa, 35, and James, 31.

News

Allison Baden-Clay's parents urge people to speak up against domestic violence

The parents of domestic violence murder victim Allison Baden-Clay are urging people to speak up and intervene in abusive relationships before it's too late. Allison's parents, Geoff and Priscilla Dickie, opened up about their regret at not doing more to help their daughter and urged others to act on warning signs. "As a society we are told to mind our own business and not intrude in other people's affairs and in a domestic violence situation this can make it hard to determine what to do," Mr Dickie said. Allison was killed by her husband Gerard in 2012 in what has become one of Australia's most high-profile cases of domestic violence. He was convicted of the mother-of-three’s murder in 2014 and is currently serving a life sentence. <img width="482" height="272" src="http://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/e19d7106941331640e852a3c7f90a4b6" alt="Allison Baden-Clay's parents Geoff and Priscilla Dickie say they wish they had done more to help their daughter before she was murdered. Picture: Liam Kidston." style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Allison’s parents spoke about how they were gradually cut off from their daughter in the months prior to her murder. "We knew Allison was strong and we thought, 'this is going to work out without our interference' so we didn't interfere, and we thought it'd work out but apparently it didn't," Mr Dickie said. Mrs Dickie said they tried to raise concerns with Allison, but their son-in-law would tell them to “butt out”. "We feared that anything might happen to her if we interfered — that he would take it out on her or the girls, that was our main worry," she said. "I think she was very frightened of him — he was a very dominating man. He ruled the roost, regardless." Mr Dicke added: "At the time we approached Allison and attempted to discuss her situation in the best way we knew how, with the limited knowledge we had at the time. "Allison, being a strong and determined person, didn't want us to worry." The Dickies hope that by sharing their daughter’s experience they would help other domestic violence victims. "In Allison's case, there were three main signs that were noticed over time: gradual isolation, control of finances and reduction in level of self-esteem," he said. "They are just three signs of many in which little things happened over a length of time that can be easily overlooked. "Often domestic violence is stereotyped, but we've all come to realise it can happen to anyone in any form of life. "Allison was a highly educated and generous woman, and it is important to our family that Allison's legacy is a positive one and that by sharing her story she may help others." The Dickies and Allison's sister, Vanessa Fowler, are partnering with Griffith University as part of its MATE Bystander program, aimed at teaching the corporate sector how to identify and handle abusive relationships. "Some people are educated not to intervene in what seems like private situations so a lot of people have pluralistic ignorance or they don't know what to do or they have fear of making things more difficult," Griffith University Professor Paul Mazzerolle said. "We all have a role to play as bystanders, we can all have an impact."

News

Allison Baden-Clay’s daughters make first public appearance to honour mum

Allison Baden-Clay’s two eldest daughters have made their first public appearance to award a young ballerina a scholarship in their slain mother’s name. Hannah, 16, and Sarah, 14, accompanied by their grandparents, Geoff and Priscilla Dickie, and aunt Vanessa Fowler, presented the award to Brisbane dance student Taji Hennessy. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she hoped the $5000 scholarship would help Taji achieve her dream of becoming a professional ballerina. “Last year my government established the Allison Baden-Clay senior program scholarship which honours the memory of Allison and supports young dancers from Queensland Ballet Dance Academy to pursue their dance dreams,” she said. “I announced the scholarship in July, on Strive to be Kind day, the annual day held by the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation, to commemorate Allison and to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and the need for respectful relationships.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> .<a href="https://twitter.com/qldballet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QldBallet</a> Academy student Taji is the inaugural recipient of the $5000 Allison Baden-Clay Senior Program Scholarship. This new scholarship pays tribute to Allison’s love of dance and highlights the importance of nurturing our young people and developing their full potential. <a href="https://t.co/bZEmvu71QK">pic.twitter.com/bZEmvu71QK</a> — AnnastaciaPalaszczuk (@AnnastaciaMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/972289490990460928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote> Allison was murdered by her husband Gerard in 2012. He is currently serving a life sentence. It is understood that Gerard has had no contact with his daughters for years. Allison’s sister, Vanessa, gave a heartfelt speech at the presentation honouring the legacy of Allison. “Today is an exciting day as we see my sister and her legacy live on,” she said. “She’s assisting a young dancer to pursue her dream and strive to be the best that she can be. It’s on occasions like this that my family reflect on Allison’s achievements and celebrate her successes. She was an amazing woman and one that was, and still is, an inspiration to many. “Allison was born to dance and excelled at it by the age of four. She had that spark, that bright smile, the soft arms and pointed feet and she filled the stage. Allison was the ever-feminine ballet dancer with spirited stage presence.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Allison Baden-Clay's beautiful daughters, Sarah and Hannah, looking happy and healthy at the Queensland Ballet Studios where a scholarship was given in their mother's name. <a href="https://twitter.com/couriermail?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@couriermail</a> <a href="https://t.co/2vd453MsiD">pic.twitter.com/2vd453MsiD</a> — Kate Kyriacou (@KateKyriacou) <a href="https://twitter.com/KateKyriacou/status/972286522975141888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote> Scholarship recipient Taji said she was honoured to be the first person awarded the scholarship. “It’s amazing, I’m so grateful,” she said. “It’s my passion.” The Allison Baden-Clay scholarship will be awarded to a young dancer each year until 2020.

News

“He’s a model prisoner”: Inside Gerard Baden-Clay’s life in prison

Convicted killer Gerard Baden-Clay is a “model” prisoner, who keeps a low profile and schmoozes prison officers, an anonymous source told <a href="http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/crime-and-justice/gerard-badenclay-a-model-prisoner-as-he-serves-life-sentence-for-murdering-wife-allison/news-story/66dde69274b239cbe67c9811fd986e5b">The Courier Mail.</a> Baden-Clay’s good behaviour has reportedly earned him extra privileges, including extra “buy-ups” at the prison canteen and possibly an extra weekly visit, sources revealed to the publication. “He does everything he is asked to do,” a source said. “When he approaches you he says: ‘Excuse me, officer.’ He is very polite. “He is not demanding. It’s just his nature, I think. He’s a conman.” Baden-Clay, who was convicted of the 2012 murder of his wife Allison, is serving a life sentence in Brisbane’s Wolston Prison with hundreds of other killers and the state’s worst sex offenders, including aniel Morcombe killer Brett Cowan. He reportedly has kept out of trouble and stays close to a close circle of friends. A source said Baden-Clay, 47, had a job in prison industries and “you never hear from him”. “If they don’t have breaches, they get an extra visit, extra things on their buy-up,” the source said. “Same with [Daniel Morcombe killer] Brett Cowan, you never hear from him. They don’t want to be known around the general population. Prisoners can buy toiletries, food and snacks such as chips and chocolate from the canteen. But it is unclear who Baden-Clay would use an extra visit for as he has been banned from having any contact with his three daughters. If Baden-Clay’s good behaviour continues, the source told the paper the father-of-three could be upgraded to the residential section of the jail, which is far more comfortable than his current cell, in the coming years. A Queensland Corrective Services spokesman said he was unable to comment about individual prisoners but said Wolston operated an Incentives and Enhancements Program (IEP) that applied to all prisoners. The program allows prisoners to work through levels to receive increased access to buy-up arrangements. “The underlying purpose of any IEPs is to address negative behaviour and improve staff safety by establishing a prison environment with increased control measures for prisoners with restricted privileges,” the spokesman said. “Processes are also in place for managing breaches of discipline while in custody.”

Mind

10 best Carole King songs ever

Few songwriters have had as much success as the legendary Carole King. Not only did she write and perform all her own songs, but she wrote some of the biggest hits for other artists, including The Shirelles, The Drifters, Aretha Franklin and Bobby Vee So, to celebrate her birthday today, we’re counting down 10 of her all-time best songs. Have a listen and tell us in the comments, which is your favourite. 10. “Where You Lead” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e3xwcji1BLQ" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 9. “Up on the Roof” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ySAmXOy0CuE" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 8. “Locomotion” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7nGRVh7TCzY" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 7. “Beautiful” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R398YOIyqp8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 6. “It’s Too Late” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Msmnb676RxI" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 5. “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WMGBcS0h-Ng" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 4. “One Fine Day” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IJFTVKOQKQA" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 3. “I Feel the Earth Move” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9ZwEMAX0oEU" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 2. “You’ve Got a Friend” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w4mNDS5rIRU" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> 1. “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MOyvYnkdEcc" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>

Music

Just how much David Koch’s controversial jacket at Carols in the Domain cost

David ‘Kochie’ Koch’s dress style lit up social media last night as he hosted another successful Carols in the Domain last night. The 61-year-old sported an outlandish red and green floral suit jacket, a stark contract to his co-host Mark Beretta's traditional white tuxedo. And you won’t believe just how much the jacket is worth! The Joe Bananas Australia blazer cost a whopping $16,500. <img src="https://media.apnarm.net.au/media/images/2017/12/18/imagev16e068e278ac2e62df7ce1781cda167e4-5oxl8ocqjri6eh34gp2_t460.jpg" alt="David Koch at carols in the domain last night in Sydney. Picture: Facebook." style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> The Sunrise host plugged the designer twice during the night. "The boys set for Woolworths Carols in the Domain. Thanks Joe Bananas Australia for the incredible jacket. Very special," he wrote. Another post said: "For those who are interested Joe Bananas Australia, whose jacket I'm wearing, is an Australian business which has been going 30 years. It's such a great success story in a really tough industry. "Their secret is to be creative and unique. Their clothes are like a piece of art." Kochie was joined by Samantha Armytage, Natalie Barr and Mark Berretta at the event which was attended by thousands of people and families.

Beauty & Style

Allison Baden-Clay's parents shattered after memorial vandalised

A memorial for mother-of-three Allison Baden-Clay, who was murdered by her husband Gerard Baden-Clay, has been vandalised. Allison’s parents Geoff and Priscilla Dickie are appalled at the incident and reported the damage to police. “We were disappointed and upset about someone interfering with it. We think it’s a bit disrespectful to damage a memorial,” Mr Dickie told The Courier-Mail. A metal plaque engraved with Allison’s name and a tribute was forcibly removed from the sandstone structure and found on the ground. The memorial sits on Mount Crosby Road in Anstead, near where Allison’s body was discovered in 2012. <img width="453" height="255" src="http://prod.static9.net.au/_/media/2017/10/04/06/54/171004_NEWS_BADENCLAY_4.jpg" alt="A plaque from the memorial was found on the ground. (9NEWS)" class="article__image" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Mrs Dickie pleaded for Allison’s tribute to be left alone as the memorial is important for her daughter’s three girls, who were five, eight and 10 when their mother was murdered in April 2012. “It’s a marking stone for them in the future, when we’re gone, that this is where their mother was found,” she said. The plaque includes the message, “A loving mother, daughter, sister, sister-in-law, wife, and dear friend to all who knew her – forever in our hearts”. Police said they were searching for the vandal, with one officer saying, “If the person who damaged it is found, they will certainly be charged.” The Dickies visit the memorial often to reflect on their daughter’s life and tragic death. The plaque is being cleaned and restored and will return to its original position. Gerard Baden-Clay was convicted of Allison's murder and sentenced to life behind bars in 2014.

Legal

Allison Baden-Clay’s parents call on Australians to strive to be kind

The parents of Allison Baden-Clay are encouraging Australians to strive to be kind in honour of their daughter, five years after she was murdered by her husband. Allison’s family and friends are calling on Queenslanders – and Australians – to perform random acts of kindness and speak out against violence throughout July in memory of the mother-of-three. Allison’s parents Priscilla and Geoff Dickie launched the sixth annual anti-domestic and family violence campaign Strive To Be Kind on June 30, the day before what would have been their daughter’s 49th birthday. <img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/39928/allison-parents_497x280.jpg" alt="Image_ (2)"/> Allison’s body was found on a creek bank 13km from her home on April 20, 2012. Her husband Gerard, who reported her missing, was later found guilty of killing his wife. “We hope that this campaign will plant the seed of respect, tolerance and empathy,” her sister Vanessa Fowler said, who now finds herself educating the public about domestic violence, on behalf of the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation. Priscilla and Geoff hoped the campaign would help spread positivity throughout the community and ensure their daughter’s memory will live on. “As parents we’re extremely proud and we think it’s just something that will make women think, and men,” Priscilla said. The grandparents also recently opened up about parenting their three granddaughters. "It's exciting for us to do it the second time around. We've already been through it once and now we're doing it the second time ... a lot of people don't get the chance to do that," Geoff said. The couple, in their mid-70s, have been through hell and back in the last five years but still manage to be positive and excited about their future with their three darling granddaughters, now 10, 13 and 15. Thrust into the spotlight in horrible circumstances, Allison’s family have turned a nightmare into something positive. <a href="https://www.allisonbadenclayfoundation.org.au/strive-to-be-kind/">Strive to Be Kind Day</a> will be held on July 28. The day encourages everyone to wear yellow, Allison’s favourite colour, and to perform small random acts of kindness. The <a href="https://www.allisonbadenclayfoundation.org.au/">Allison Baden-Clay Foundation</a> aims to build a Queensland community that acknowledges the prevalence of domestic and family violence and seeks to create a Queensland that is committed to eliminating and taking concrete action to stop domestic and family violence.

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