Full Story Was Ivan Milat responsible for more murders than we think?
Dec 14, 2025
Anne Davies, a seasoned correspondent for The Guardian, dives deep into the chilling legacy of Ivan Milat, notorious for backpacker murders in the 1990s. She reveals disturbing insights suggesting Milat may have killed over 80 people. Their discussion uncovers potential accomplices, the emotional toll on victims' families, and the push for a parliamentary inquiry to link Milat to unsolved cases. Davies shares personal anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of the community's shock and the ongoing quest for justice.
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Local Discovery Made Case Personal
- Anne Davies recalls her mother’s neighbour finding some of the Belanglo bodies near Bundanoon, making the case feel personal and immediate.
- That local discovery shifted national awareness from isolated missing persons to a linked series of murders.
Pattern Of Violence And Silence
- Anne Davies highlights Milat’s history of violent crime and manipulative behaviour as key to his danger.
- His refusal to talk and his history suggested the possibility of involvement in many other unsolved cases.
Early Victim Possibly Linked To Milat
- Karen Rowland vanished in Canberra in 1971 and her body was found three months later in a pine forest.
- Her retired-metropolitan policeman cousin, Hugh Hughes, is 95–98% certain Ivan Milat was responsible.