The winters in Victoria's Gippsland region are notorious for their frost and overcast skies, but it's not only the weather that casts a pall over Korumburra. This small town, known for its scenic low hills, is grappling with a tragedy that has shocked its 5,000 residents. Erin Patterson was found guilty of murder after serving a fatal meal laced with toxic mushrooms at a family gathering on July 29, 2023. The victims — her in-laws Don and Gail Patterson, and her sister-in-law Heather Wilkinson — were all well-known figures in the community.
Erin's trial lasted 10 weeks and attracted considerable media attention, but local residents are not eager to discuss it. "It’s been very difficult for everyone, especially with the focus on the trial," remarked Nathan Hersey, a local farmer and councilor, who expressed hope that the verdict might allow the community to move forward. "It's time for closure," he said.
Don Patterson, a former school teacher, left a significant mark on the hearts of many, with former students fondly recounting his influence on their education. A tribute on the noticeboard of the Korumburra Baptist Church emphasized the love and kindness exhibited by the victims, highlighting their integral roles in the community's fabric.
The case has sent ripples through Korumburra and the surrounding areas, affecting everyone in some way. "Everyone knows someone who has been impacted," told Ian Thoms, a local resident from the nearby road where death cap mushrooms were allegedly foraged. The connection runs deep; many local residents had personal ties to the deceased or were impacted professionally.
Across town, Erin Patterson’s home sits vacant. After constructing the house with an inheritance, it now serves as a sad reminder of the events that unfolded. Neighbors have shared tales of their reluctance to visit the area due to curiosity seekers wondering about the notorious meal's location.
The nearby town of Morwell has also felt the repercussions of the high-profile trial, turning the typically quiet locality into a buzzing hub of activity as the courtroom drama unfolded. Local business owner Laura Heller noted a stark increase in daily sales, as the attention surrounding the trial has drawn people to the area. Yet, she cautioned that such attention has also revived tensions regarding local crime and community relations with law enforcement.
While the national spotlight has raised awareness for the town, residents like Hersey stress the enduring impact of the case on everyday life. "It's a tragedy that changed lives forever," he expressed. Even as the community seeks to heal, the haunting presence of the crime remains close at hand, overshadowing their hopes for brighter days ahead. The drive for criminal closure is a shared goal as Korumburra strives to reclaim a sense of normalcy amid an unthinkable tragedy.
