When Neil Griffith and his University friend Nigel decided to pack up their life in late 1999 and head to Australia on the adventure of a lifetime, they were young, carefree fun-seekers with the world at their feet. But it would be a trip engulfed by multiple episodes of tragedy and trauma and a key role in the investigation into the Palace Backpackers Hostel fire in Childers.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

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The Childers fire is considered the worst arson attack in Queensland history. The after effects were far-reaching with local businesses and the tourism industry taking both a financial and reputational hit. Solutions needed to be found and that started with fixing Queensland's inadequate fire safety laws.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It took just two years and four months for the Palace to be re-opened following a full re-build on the site of the exisiting hostel. There was considerable consultation with the community and the victims' families before agreeing on what would be a stunning memorial to the Palace 15. But getting to that highly emotional unveiling was far more complex than Council had first imagined.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the months after the fire, Council commenced its plan to restore the Palace and bring about some normality for neighbouring businesses affected by the June 2000 tragedy. But striking a deal to acquire the building and establish a suitable memorial to the victims was more challenging than they had envisioned.

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Immediately after they escaped the burning Palace, a number of backpackers reported their suspicions and identified the primary suspect to police. Authorities then set about piecing together a case to prove it was deliberately lit and build a murder case against him. It was an investigation ahead of its time to ensure it would succeed when the matter went before a jury.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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The man who lit the Palace Backpackers Hostel was well known to police. He had an extensive criminal history across multiple states and had caused immeasurable trauma to a family who had invited him into their home. What happened in Childers was the extension of a disturbing pattern of behaviour during the decade prior.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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The Childers community and surrounding towns were on edge. They feared for their safety as the man dubbed Australia's most wanted was on the loose for five days after the fire. During a violent apprehension, it took the bravery of a hero police officer and his loyal dog to bring Robert Long into custody.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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The burden of a week of intense grief and trauma was weighing heavily on the survivors and the Childers community. The town needed a lift. It came in the form of the first Royal visit to the region in 25 years.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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The strong Dutch contingent staying at the Palace brought a unique energy to the backpacker group. And in June 2000 they found a common bond through the love of their national football team. But the fire would tear the group apart and change young lives forever.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

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Three days after the fire a highly emotional memorial service was held in the Community Centre. It featured the full suite of Government officials, but the focus was on the group of survivors, lead by James Whitehurst, who coined the term which would become synonymous with the 15 victims.

Written and produced by Paul Cochrane

Original music, sound design & editing by Zoltan Fecso

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/childers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.