Justin, who led the investigation unit at the time, testified that she was tasked with compiling information reports from the public in April 2020. This included following leads and visiting Lynn’s family home in Caroline Springs on July 14 of that year. Traffic camera footage captured Lynn’s dark-coloured 1997 Nissan Patrol 4WD near Mount Hotham on the day after the alleged murders. An image showed his vehicle as the only one passing through the camera site around 9.50am on March 21, the same time Hill’s phone was traced to the area. Aerial footage of the area and ANPR technology installed at Mount Hotham was also presented to the jury.
Former Jetstar pilot Gregory Lynn is on trial for the alleged murders of Carol Clay and Russell Hill. On the morning of March 21, 12 vehicles were captured passing through cameras on the Buckland Gap side. The IT specialist who installed the camera system provided footage showing a dark-coloured Nissan Patrol 4WD towing a trailer passing through the area at 9.48am. The court saw photos of the driver inside the vehicle on large television screens. Hill, who was married and living in Drouin, had a long-standing relationship with Clay, who lived in Pakenham. Their friendship bloomed over time, and Clay shared stories of camping trips with Hill.
Carol Clay’s friend Louise Heib, a member of the Country Women’s Association, testified that she knew Clay for about three years before their friendship grew. Heib shared that Clay had been divorced for some time and talked about her relationship with Hill, whom she described as her first love. Clay had mentioned that Hill did not want to leave his wife due to her health, but this did not bother her as she was independent. Clay often shared stories of camping trips with Hill, where she enjoyed the freedom of the outdoors. On the morning of March 19, the day before the alleged murders, Clay called Heib for help with her CWA board application, but the call cut out after Heib heard Hill’s voice in the background, likely due to reception issues.
The trial continues with ongoing witness testimonies and evidence presentations. A new podcast from 9News, The Age, and 9Podcasts is following the court case in real time, documenting the proceedings as they unfold. The Missing Campers Trial podcast, presented by Nine reporter Penelope Liersch and Age reporter Erin Pearson, provides insight into the investigation and trial surrounding the alleged murders of Carol Clay and Russell Hill. Stay updated on breaking news, entertainment ideas, and in-depth reads by signing up for the Evening Edition newsletter. The podcast offers a unique opportunity to follow a jury trial in real-time in Victoria, shedding light on the complexities of this high-profile case.
