The Morning Edition Is Dezi Freeman being glorified like the other 'daring, desperate or deranged' fugitives who came before him?
Sep 2, 2025
Tony Wright, associate editor and special writer for The Age & SMH, explores the haunting landscapes of Victoria's high country, a notorious hideout for outlaws. He discusses the fascinating history of the area, drawing comparisons between legends like Ned Kelly and the modern fugitive Dezi Freeman. The complexities surrounding Freeman's disappearance and the troubling allure of romanticizing outlaws are examined. Wright also delves into the community's divided reactions to Freeman's radical conspiracy theories, ignited by feelings of alienation.
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High Country's Hidden Danger
- Victoria's high country is rugged and can hide people or cause them to disappear for non-criminal reasons.
- The terrain's beauty belies its peril and historical reputation as refuge for fugitives.
Century-Old Mountain Mysteries
- Tony recounts historical crimes like Dan Morgan, Ned Kelly and the 1918 Wannangatta Valley murders.
- The unsolved 1918 double deaths cemented the valley's reputation for mystery.
Recent High Country Killings
- Tony describes the 2020 Gadsden/ Wanangatta missing persons case that led to Gregory Lynn's conviction.
- Lynn was convicted for Carol Clay's murder and given 32 years, while mysteries remained about Russell Hill.
