How does a thirteen-year-old girl disappear within 180 metres of her own home?

On Monday, 20 March 1978, Denise McGregor left her family home in Pascoe Vale to buy dinner from a nearby fish and chip shop.

On the walk home, she separated from her younger sister at the corner of Bell Street and Anderson Street to visit a local milk bar — approximately 180 metres from her front door.

She did not return.

Later that evening, Denise was reported missing. The following morning, her body was discovered on Merriang Road in Wallan East, approximately 40 kilometres north of Melbourne.

Her murder remains unsolved.

This episode reconstructs the confirmed timeline of Denise McGregor’s disappearance using witness statements, police records, inquest material, and contemporaneous reporting.

It establishes what is known — and where the gaps begin.

The case remains open with Victoria Police.

Information:
Anyone with information relating to the disappearance or murder of Denise McGregor is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.police.vic.gov.au/crime-stoppers
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Content warning:
This episode discusses the sexual assault and murder of a child and contains descriptions of how a child’s body was found. Listener discretion is advised.
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