In March 2022, it will be alleged that Greg Lynn murdered Russell Hill and Carol Clay at a campsite called Bucks Camp in Wonnangatta Valley, Victoria. Hill and Clay, both in their 70s, were in a relationship and had been camping together when they were killed. Lynn, a Jetstar airline pilot, denies the charges and claims the deaths were accidental. Hill, a radio enthusiast and frequent camper, and Clay, a community volunteer, were well-known in their respective circles.
The prosecution claims that on the evening of March 20, 2020, Lynn shot Clay in the head while she was crouched down near the canopy of Hill’s Toyota Landcruiser. Hill is believed to have been killed first, although the exact circumstances of his death remain unknown. Lynn is accused of going to great lengths to contaminate the crime scene and conceal evidence. He then allegedly set fire to the scene, removed personal belongings of Hill and Clay, and drove away with their bodies in a box trailer.
After Lynn’s arrest, forensic investigators found burnt remains at the Bucks Camp site, along with bone fragments belonging to Hill and Clay. DNA analysis confirmed the identity of the victims. Lynn allegedly disposed of the trailer holding the bodies to avoid being linked to the murders. The prosecution has presented evidence including surveillance recordings, forensic analysis of fire debris, and DNA samples to support their case against Lynn.
In his defence, Lynn claims that the deaths were a result of a chaotic struggle that broke out between him and Hill. According to Lynn, the altercation began when Hill accused him of hunting too close to the campsite and threatened to take footage of Lynn’s activities to the police. The situation escalated when Hill allegedly took Lynn’s gun from his car, leading to a struggle for control of the weapon. Lynn alleges that the gun accidentally discharged, striking Clay in the head.
Following the deaths, Lynn admits to moving the bodies to Union Spur Track and burning them. He describes feeling physically ill while carrying out this act. The defence argues that Lynn’s actions were a response to a life-threatening situation and that he did not intend to harm Hill or Clay. The outcome of the trial will hinge on the jury’s assessment of the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence.
The Missing Campers Trial podcast will follow the court case as it unfolds, providing listeners with real-time updates and insights into the legal proceedings. Presented by Nine reporter Penelope Liersch and Age reporter Erin Pearson, the podcast aims to shed light on the complexities of the case and explore the tragic events that led to the deaths of Russell Hill and Carol Clay. As the trial progresses, listeners will have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the evidence and arguments presented in court.
