The Trial: Australia

Ivan Milat is one of the most notorious serial killers in all of Australia. He was convicted in 1996 of the brutal murders of seven backpackers whose bodies were discovered in the Belanglo State Forest.His violent and disturbing crimes shocked the world, but that only be the tip of the iceberg.Now, with a new inquiry underway, investigators are revisiting more than 50 unsolved disappearances and murders that may be linked to Milat, potentially making him far more prolific than originally thought.In this episode, Wayne is joined by acclaimed journalist and author Mark Whittaker, co-author of Sins of the Brother, who explores Milat’s violent upbringing, the horrifying details of the backpacker murders, and why many believe the full truth may never be known. Later, Daily Mail crime reporter Candice Sutton shares her firsthand insights after meeting Milat in prison and reveals the latest developments in the inquiry that could finally bring answers to families who have waited decades for justice.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditionsOpen to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we examine the heartbreaking case of Kumanjayi Little Baby, the five-year-old girl whose disappearance and death shocked communities across the country.Wayne is joined by journalist Karleigh Smith to unpack the investigation, and the allegations against Jefferson Lewis, who has since been charged with murder. They also break down the extraordinary scenes of grief and anger which have broken out across Australia, with some locals trying to take matters into their own hands, attempting to carry out “mob justice”.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditionsOpen to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Easter Sunday, 65 year old farmer Richard Wills said goodbye to his wife and left their home- but he never returned.Investigators later discovered his body, believing that he was shot, dragged by a vehicle on his own farm, and then buried in a shallow grave.But the mystery has sparked speculation; ranging from Fake AI images, talk of Merino Sheep Mafia, and speculation of someone known to Richard ambushing him.In this episode, Wayne speaks to journalist Steve Cook, to discuss their visit to the town where this murder took place and reveal what they learned.Afterwards, criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro joins the podcast, to break down some of the theories and shine a light on what may have happened in the small town of Ouyen.Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditions Open to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tess Rowlatt was once known as a successful marketing guru, but she’s now been dubbed as Melbourne’s Meth Queen.She pleaded guilty to trafficking meth and dealing with the proceeds of crime, her second drug related conviction, after a dramatic police chase led to the discovery of drugs, cash, and bank cards in other peoples’ names.She is due to be sentenced- however there is still a chance that she could walk free.This week Wayne is joined by reporter Paul Shapiro, who has been following Tess Rowlatt as she progresses through her court hearings. In this episode Wayne also speaks with Lucy Manly, who grew up around Rowlatt and has written features on the experience. Together, they try to answer the question; how did a young professional spiral to this point?Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditions Open to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia’s most decorated soldier, has been celebrated for his service in Afghanistan. But now, the man who was once considered a national hero is at the centre of serious criminal allegations.He has been charged with five counts of the war crime of murder, and is in custody in New South Wales' Silverwater Correctional Complex after arrest by the Australian Federal Police last week. But Ben Roberts-Smith has consistently denied any wrongdoing.In this episode, Wayne is joined by veteran court reporter Stephen Gibbs to unpack how we got here, from explosive media investigations and a bruising civil trial, to a complex and unprecedented criminal prosecution that could take years to resolve.Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditions Open to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2024, Nikkita Azzopardi was killed by her partner, Joel Micallef, in a horrifying attack.He was charged with murder, but found not guilty due to mental impairment, after forensic psychiatrists told the court he was suffering acute psychosis at the time of the killing. The verdict devastated Nikita’s family, who felt like they had not had justice. Now, in a shocking turn of events, Micallef has been found dead in custody while awaiting transfer to a secure mental health facility. Rejoining Wayne on the podcast is Nikkita’s brothers, Sean and Darren Azzopardi. They discuss this unexpected development, their calls for legal reform, and their victim impact statement, which they will now never be able to deliver to Joel Micallef. Help shape the Crime Desk by taking our quick, listener survey. It takes just five minutes, and you could win a £50 Amazon voucher.Terms and conditions Open to UK residents aged 18 or over.Enter between 00:01 BST on 23rd April 2026 and 23:59 BST on 23rd May 2026, inclusiveThe Promotion is free to enter by visiting, completing the online survey and providing your contact details (including email address).There will be one (1) winner.The winner will win £50 Amazon VoucherAmazon Vouchers are subject to Amazon’s T&Cs found here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Full T&Cs apply, click here to read them.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After more than 200 days on the run, one of Australia’s largest and most intense manhunts has come to an end.Dezi Freeman had been on the run since he shot and killed two police officers last year. Despite a $1 million reward for information, police had no concrete leads as to his whereabouts. But a crucial tip-off led officers to a secluded property, where a tense three hour standoff unfolded, ending with Freeman being shot dead.In this episode, Wayne is joined by reporter Caitlin Powell to break down the final moments of the operation, as detectives investigate whether the self-described sovereign citizen had any help evading capture, and how he managed to stay hidden for so long.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last year a targeted attack at a luxury villa in Bali left one man dead and another seriously injured. Two Australian men were swiftly convicted of murder, and another for aiding and abetting premediated murder.In this episode Wayne is joined by journalist Paul Shapiro to break down the case, from the chaotic night of the attack, to claims it was a botched job ordered by a mysterious figure known only as “Mr. X.”But the case now heads to appeal, with Indonesian prosecutors demanding a tougher sentence- which could include the death penalty.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2022, sisters Asra and Amaal Alsehli were found dead inside their Sydney apartment, weeks after they had died, with no signs of forced entry and no clear cause. Having fled Saudi Arabia seeking asylum, the young women had been living in fear in the months leading up to their deaths. The mystery puzzled investigators for years.Now, after years of silence, new information has emerged about what police believe may have happened.In this episode, Wayne Flower is joined by veteran crime reporter Stephen Gibbs to break down the latest developments, the unanswered questions, and what could come next as the case heads toward a coronial inquest.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In February, an 85 year old grandfather was abducted from his home in the Sydney suburb of North Ryde. But according to police, they had the wrong man.Chris Baghsarian, a widower and family man with no links to organised crime, was allegedly taken by a group of men who believed they had kidnapped someone else. Investigators say the offenders were trying to target the father of a wealthy property developer and allegedly demanded a ransom of $50 million. Eleven days after the alleged abduction, Baghsarian’s body was discovered. In this episode, Wayne is joined by Paul Shapiro, to discuss the timeline of this horrific case. Now that two men who have been charged with kidnapping and murder, we examine the disturbing allegations, the evidence police claim links the suspects to the crime, and how a fatal case of mistaken identity unfolded.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On January 22nd, the small town of Lake Cargelligo became the scene of an alleged triple murder, with the accused going on the run and remaining missing ever since. Police allege a targeted attack left three people dead: 25 year old Sophie Quinn, who was heavily pregnant; her longtime friend John Harris; and Sophie's aunt, Nerida Quinn. A fourth victim, 19-year-old Caleb McQueen, survived the shooting but suffered serious injuries.The man accused of carrying out the attack, 37-year-old Julian Ingram, allegedly fled the scene in a council truck and has not been seen since. More than five weeks later, he remains on the run, and court proceedings against him cannot progress until he is located and arrested.In this episode Wayne is joined by reporter Karleigh Smith, who travelled to Lake Cargelligo to speak with locals in attempt to discover the events of that day. Together they piece together the timeline of the alleged shootings, explore the alleged tensions that may have led up to the attack, and reveal how fear and grief continue to grip this tight-knit community while the suspected gunman remains at large.Plus, we hear the extraordinary account of the young survivor still recovering from the trauma of that day.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last December, a beachside Hanukkah celebration at Bondi turned into one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent Australian history. Fifteen people were killed. Dozens more were injured. Now, for the first time, the man accused of carrying out the attack has faced court.In this episode Wayne examines the case against 24-year-old Naveed Akram, who is charged with 59 offences including terrorism, murder and attempted murder. Held under the strictest conditions inside Goulburn’s Supermax prison, he is expected to fight the charges in what could become one of the country’s most complex and high security trials.Rejoining the podcast once again is senior reporter Candice Sutton, to unpack what life is like inside Supermax, the defence strategy taking shape, and the long road ahead before this case reaches a jury.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the disappearance of Gus Lamont shifts from a missing persons case to a criminal investigation, Wayne sits down with legendary former homicide detective Charlie Bezzina.Together they explore how investigators approach complex missing persons cases, from probing family timelines and seizing electronic devices, to managing media pressure and community scrutiny. They also analyse recent developments in the story, including one family member facing firearm charges, and renewed search efforts with the use of cadaver dogs.The Trial Australia is part of The Crime Desk. Subscribe today for ad-free listening, early access to new shows, exclusive bonus episodes and complete access to our true-crime podcast collection. Visit thecrimedesk.com for more information.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeFollow us on instagram @TheTrialPodSubscribe to our YouTube channel @TheCrimeDeskClick here to sign up to The Crime Desk's weekly newsletter. It's free and packed with exclusive interviews, expert insight, and gripping deep dive investigations from across the world. Email us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’)Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria CecchiniA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Australia Police have declared the disappearance of four-year-old Gus Lamont a major crime, in a monumental moment of the case.What began as a desperate search for a little boy who vanished while playing at his grandparents’ remote outback sheep station has now become a criminal investigation, with one family member identified as a suspect. In this episode, Wayne speaks with reporter Karleigh Smith, who has been on the ground in South Australia, about the unprecedented scale of the search, the hiring of high-profile defence lawyers, and the mounting questions surrounding the events of that day.With no trace of Gus found despite one of the largest searches in state history, we unpack all the new information in this case.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne examines the tragic deaths of a family of four in Perth’s affluent suburb of Mosman Park, which police are treating as a suspected double murder-suicide.Joining him is reporter Lucy Manley, who has been on the ground in Western Australia. They discuss everything that is understood about the case, including what friends, teachers and carers have said about the family’s final weeks, the boys’ schooling, and the letters police say were left behind.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne looks at the remarkable case of Daniel Alejandro Latriglia Salcedo, a Colombian student prosecutors say ran a multi-drug trafficking operation under the name 'Thanos'.Using QR-coded business cards and Telegram menus, Salcedo openly marketed cocaine, ketamine, ecstasy, LSD and more, until police uncovered drugs, cash and digital evidence of dealing. Yet despite pleading guilty to serious drug trafficking offences, Salcedo walked free from court.Joining Wayne is criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro, whose expertise has featured in some of Australia’s biggest criminal trials. Together, they break down how technology has changed the landscape of drug dealing- and why today’s dealers often believe they’re untouchable, right up until the moment they’re caught.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Once a fixture of red carpets, private jets, and reality television, Brynne Edelsten lived a life few could imagine; until it all began to unravel.In this episode, Wayne examines the dramatic fall of Brynne Edelsten following her arrest and court appearances over serious drug trafficking allegations.Joining Wayne is journalist Paul Shapiro, who offers insight into the legal proceedings, the charges Edelsten faces, and what lies ahead as her case moves through the Victorian courts.Wayne also sits down with Stephen Cook, former New Zealand Herald reporter, long-time celebrity photographer, and former friend of Edelsten. Cook provides a rare and deeply personal account of his time inside her world, from paparazzi setups and unpaid debts to revelations surrounding the infamous Shane Warne sting.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the definitive deep dive into one of the country’s most infamous true crime stories.In this episode, Wayne unpacks the true story of Brendan Abbott, the man forever known as The Postcard Bandit. From audacious prison escapes and cross country bank robberies to decades spent in solitary confinement, Abbott’s life has captivated, and divided, the nation for more than 30 years.Wayne is joined by investigative journalist and author Abe Maddison (also known as Derek Pedley), the writer of Australian Outlaw and one of the few people to have spoken extensively with Abbott himself. Drawing on years of research, personal correspondence, and firsthand prison visits, Abe tells us the definitive story of The Postcard Bandit.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On October 2024, 35-year-old Nikkita Azzopardi failed to attend a family gathering in Melbourne, an absence so out of character it immediately raised alarm. Within hours, her brothers Darren and Sean would force their way into her home and make a discovery that would change their lives forever.Nikkita had been brutally killed by her partner, Joel Micallef. Charged with murder, Micallef was later found not guilty due to mental impairment, after forensic psychiatrists told the Supreme Court of Victoria he was suffering acute psychosis at the time of the killing.In this episode, Nikkita’s brothers speak publicly about the moments leading up to her death, the harrowing scene they encountered, and the legal process that followed. They share their frustration with a system they believe failed their sister, and explain why they are now calling for urgent reform of Victoria’s mental impairment laws.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the first night of Hanukkah, two gunmen opened fire at Bondi Beach in Sydney. The unthinkable atrocity killed 15 people and injured many more, with the impact still being felt across the world.In this episode, Wayne speaks to freelance photographer Banjo, who witnessed the attack unfold firsthand. Journalist and Bondi local Lucy Manly also joins the podcast to explain what we know so far, and how the community is grappling with the aftermath of the Bondi Attack.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne is joined by journalist Paul Shapiro to unpack one of the most explosive legal stories to hit Australia this year: the public naming of Tom Silvagni, a 23 year old from one of Victoria’s most prominent AFL families, after a long running suppression battle. For nearly 18 months, courts kept his identity and family ties secret. But now a judge has now lifted the gag order protecting Silvagni, shortly after he was convicted of rape, making his awful crime public to the world.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quiet North Turramurra street was horrified in the early hours of the morning when a house party descended into sudden, brutal and violent chaos. The bloody pool party in a $4 million property left a man fighting for his life after being stabbed 10 times. Now one culprit is behind bars for recklessly inflicting grievous bodily harm. In this episode, Senior News Reporter Candace Sutton is joining Wayne to explain how violence broke out in this quiet suburb, including what happened when Jess William Ratcliff faced his charges in court.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When beloved German Shepherd Arnie was reported stolen, the story captured the hearts of thousands across Australia. A viral search effort, media appeals, and a $6,000 reward followed- until a devastating discovery changed everything.Now police allege the dog was ever stolen at all. Accusations of neglect, a late night visit to a Brisbane brothel, and a rapidly unfolding investigation have turned a missing pet plea into one of the most bizarre cases of the year.In this episode Wayne is joined by reporter Tita Smith to unpack accusations surrounding Nathan McKeown and the night Arnie disappeared.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Four year old August “Gus” Lamont vanished from his grandparents’ remote sheep station in the South Australian outback, triggering one of the largest searches in the state’s history. But nearly two months on, police, soldiers, SES crews, divers, and locals have turned up nothing. No trace, no evidence, no clues to what might have happened. In this episode, Wayne returns to the case with journalist Karleigh Smith, who has been on the ground in Yunta following this story. Karleigh brings new details from the drained dam search, rising community tensions and sightings of Gus’s reclusive family.Later, Wayne also speaks with renowned private investigator Ken Gamble, who offers rare insight into how missing persons cases are handled, what may have been overlooked in the initial search, and why an absence of evidence can be its own critical clue.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne Flower unpacks one of the strangest cases to come out of South Australia this year. Tamika Chesser, a once familiar face from the reality TV show Beauty and the Geek, now stands accused of murdering her boyfriend, Julian Story, whose headless body was discovered in Port Lincoln earlier this year.Senior crime reporter Candace Sutton joins Wayne to trace Chesser’s timeline from Gold Coast model to being accused of murder by Port Lincoln police.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin Patterson’s story isn’t over yet. After being sentenced to life in prison, the convicted “mushroom killer” is fighting back, entering a notice of appeal and calling for a retrial. In this episode, Wayne Flower is joined by top Melbourne lawyer George Balot to unpack Patterson’s seven grounds of appeal, from claims of jury irregularities to allegations of unfair cross-examination. They break down exactly what this appeal means, and what we can expect next in this historic case.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One morning earlier this year, Venus Bay locals woke up to find 9 dead wombats in the streets- and now they claim they’re dealing with a mass wombat killer. The 9 wombats were found lying by the roadside, some with tyre marks, some moved into strange positions.Investigators found CCTV showing multiple utes driving around that night, swerving across the road. And one of those vehicles was allegedly used to hit the wombats. The alleged wombat massacre turned local community members into sleuths, with people sharing information updates on social media in the hunt for the alleged perpetrator.In this episode, Wayne is joined by one of those local sleuths and wombat protection group founder Thomas Osberg. Together, they are laying out everything known about this case, and the alleged wombat killer.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been a while since Caroline & Liz had time to catch up and say hello to you all, and with the launch of our exciting new Crime Desk newsletter, thought now was as good a time as any!sign up to the newsletter at newsletter.thecrimedesk.com for free. Become a full member of The Crime Desk with a month’s free trial at www.thecrimedesk.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne is delving into the surge of violence in Melbourne as part of the ongoing tobacco wars. Targeted attacks, drive-bys, firebombings, even the death of innocent civilians caught in the middle; and the violence is showing no signs of stopping.Joining Wayne is Ryan Naumenko, a former crook turned independent journalist who has made a career exposing the truth of the criminal underworld. In this podcast, he’s laying it all out on the table, from insider information, to the attempt on his own life.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower Producer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 27, four-year-old Gus Lamont disappeared without a trace from a remote sheep station in South Australia. Despite the largest search operation in the state's history, there’s still no sign of him. In this episode, Wayne is joined by Daily Mail senior reporter Karleigh Smith, who’s been on the ground covering the case. Together, they cut through the swirling rumours, debunk the AI generated hoaxes, and lay out the definitive facts of the case.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Trial Australia, Caroline is returning to join Wayne for a dive deep into the latest bombshell developments in the Erin Patterson case.The Victorian DPP is now appealing Patterson's sentence, calling the 33 year non-parole period for three murders and one attempted murder "manifestly inadequate." Wayne and Caroline unpack the implications and examine why this sentence is now under serious legal scrutiny.Plus, top Melbourne criminal lawyer George Balot joins the show to shed light on what might come next, both for the prosecution’s appeal and Patterson’s own expected appeal against her conviction. Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne Flower and Caroline CheethamProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2021, Tom Phillips disappeared into the bush with his three children. They remained hidden for years, and despite a mammoth police hunt, headline news, and even an $80,000 reward, their whereabouts remained unknown. But that suddenly changed when a police encounter with Phillips quickly escalated into a shootout, and the fugitive father was shot dead.However, the story doesn’t end there, as questions arise as to how Phillips survived in the bush for years, and an investigation into his possible accomplices commences.Today Wayne is joined by investigative journalist Michael Morrah from The New Zealand Herald, to dive into all the shocking details of this case, and what could happen next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Wayne Flower is looking at the heartbreaking and tragic house fire that claimed the lives of two children and injured a third- and the mother of all three who now faces charges of negligent manslaughter.Shania Lee’s lawyer says that there was no way, and no evidence, that she could have known what was going to happen that night. But the police hold a more distressing belief, alleging that Lee left the house after the fire began.Using voice actors to recreate the events of the courtroom, Wayne is taking you inside Lee’s bail hearing, where the police lay out every detail from their investigation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first of our weekly episodes, Wayne Flower looks at the gripping and ongoing manhunt for Dezi Freeman, a sovereign citizen fugitive accused of killing two Victorian police officers. With Australia’s largest tactical police operation underway, Paul Cale, known as the country’s toughest soldier, joins the podcast to analyse the manhunt. He explains why Freeman may have remained undetected, what it might take to bring him in, as well as what could happen next in this shocking case.Follow us on Tiktok @DailyMailCrimeEmail us [email protected] us +447796657512 (start your message with ‘Trial’) Presenter: Wayne FlowerProducer: Sam MorrisCreative Director: Caroline CheethamProduction Manager: Vittoria Cecchini A Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this emergency episode Caroline and Wayne have the moment Erin Patterson was sentenced to life in prison. She will serve at least 33 years for the murders of Don and Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson, and the attempted murder of Heather’s husband Ian. For the first time ever in Melbourne’s Supreme Court, the judge was broadcast live as he told her she had shown no pity for her victims. He also said it would never be known if their lives could have been saved, if doctors had known sooner that they had eaten death cap mushrooms. He said her crimes fell into the worst category and she knew her victims would suffer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special extra episode Caroline and Wayne have the words from the victims of Erin Patterson as they addressed a court in Melbourne today. Erin Patterson sat in the dock listening intently as members of the families told her she had taken the lives of people who only did good in the world, and they asked over and over again how she could have gone through with her “cold and calculated” plan to murder. They said the “ultimate injustice” was never having an explanation for why she did what  she did. The statements delivered in court today will now be considered by the judge who will hand down her sentence in two weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode Caroline and Wayne have more shocking allegations made against Erin Patterson in court. These were kept from the jury during the trial and until today we weren't allowed to reveal them to you either. But we can now explain the details of four attempts she made to poison and kill her husband, Simon - months before she murdered his parents with death cap mushrooms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final episode of this series - for now - Caroline and Wayne interview one of the key witnesses in the case. Dr Chris Webster suspected Erin Patterson of doing something “macabre” within minutes of seeing her at the hospital and he said as two of the people she poisoned were lying in beds feet away from her she didn’t even go to see them. His evidence was crucial in helping to convict her of triple murder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne have exclusive CCTV footage of Erin Patterson visiting a tip - within half an hour of her lunch guests leaving her house. The video has never been seen before and this tip visit was never disclosed to the jury. So what exactly was she getting rid of? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the day after the jury returned their guilty verdicts for Erin Patterson. She is now one of the world’s most notorious killers and today we wanted to try to analyse what makes someone so seemingly ordinary become a mass killer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Erin Patterson is a mass murderer. The jury in Victoria, Australia have today found her guilty of murdering her in-laws by poisoning them with deadly death cap mushrooms. The jury agreed that she lured them to her house by lying about having cancer, before she fed them a deadly meal. Then as they got sicker and sicker, she played lego and she went to Subway. In today’s episode Caroline and Wayne have the full story from court. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne have the moment the jury started their deliberations. After giving them their final instructions, the judge, Mr Justice Beale, balotted the jury down from 14 to 12 and told them to start considering their verdicts. We also explain why the jury will not be allowed to go home now until they have decided on those verdicts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne have more of the words from the judge as he continues to sum the case up to the jury. He told them that just because Erin Patterson is a liar does not mean she is guilty of murder. On Monday he will hand the case over to them as they start to deliberate on their verdicts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne, for the first time, have the words of the judge as he tells the jury the fate of Erin Patterson will be in their hands. He has told them not to be swayed by prejudice or by sympathy and not to be influenced by the views of their family and friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne having the final words from Erin Patterson. Her defence barrister told the jury the prosecution had failed to reach the “high bar” to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt with “illogical” arguments. He said Erin Patterson’s lies may have been morally wrong but they did not make her guilty of triple murder. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne hear that Erin Patterson told “lots of lies” because she had a lot on the line including the possibility of losing her children. But those lies did not make her guilty of triple murder, according to her defence barrister. Plus we hear for the first time that she may have become sick before her lunch guests because she’s been tasting the mushroom mixture as she was cooking it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne hear there is no motive in this case. That Erin Patterson loved her in-laws and had no reason to kill them. In fact she “needed them in her life”. But we also hear accusations that she was duplicitous, of pretending to care about them but then mocking them online. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne have the closing speech from the Prosecutor. Dr Nanette Rogers said Erin Patterson had planned the lunch in great detail setting her “trail” of lies weeks before. She also said those lies were exposed because she hadn’t succeeded in killing one of her lunch guests who then gave evidence against her. Dr Rogers also said Erin Patterson had tried to cover her tracks but she was “inconsistent” in her stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode Caroline and Wayne have the final moments of the case against Erin Patterson. All the evidence has now been heard and in the coming days the case will finally be summed up before the jury start to consider their verdicts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caroline and Wayne hear Erin Patterson deny covering her tracks when she realised the doctors suspected death cap mushrooms were to blame for poisoning Don, Gail, Ian and Heather. She also said she did not serve her own meal on a different coloured plate to her guests as an extra “precaution”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.