Extensive evidence for cold case triple murder inquest

A Coroner, an investigation into the murder of three friends at 46 years ago, collects “comprehensive” evidence in front of the hearings 46 years ago.

23 -year -old Karen Edwards, 31 -year -old Tim Thomson and 21 -year -old Gordon Twadle left Alice Springs with their dogs ‘Tristic’ for a motorcycle trip to Isa Mountain on October 2, 1978.

The trio was found dead with firearms in the distant bushes in Spear Creek, 12 km north of Isa Mountain.

Queensland Coroner David O’Connell was updated on a preparation of an investigation about the deaths that had to begin hearings in October.

The lawyer, who helped Amelia Hughes, said that the parties would receive a copy of the evidence and witness list in September.

“This is a very comprehensive summary. This process is still in progress.” He said.

Ms. Edwards’ sister and other family members listened to Coroner’s pre -phone conference by phone.

Mr. Thomson and Mr. Twadle were family friends from New Zealand and shared a passion for motorcycles.

Mrs. Edwards was Mr. Thomson’s girlfriend.

When they reached Cairns, friends planned to go to Melbourne south for Christmas with his family.

Most recently, on the morning of October 5, 1978, a man left the brown and white Toyota Landcruiser station in four -wheel drive from the Moondarra Karavan Park on Isa Mountain.

In 2019, the Queensland police renewed an $ 250,000 award for information that led to the concern and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murders.

Former NSW prison guards Bruce John Preston was accused of murders in April 2019 and gave bail in February 2020.

In July 2023, Crown prosecutors fell all charges against Mr. Preston.

The investigation will take trials at Brisbane Coroners Court for nine days as of October 7.

The trials stem from the last days before the 47th anniversary of the victims were found dead.