Timesuck with Dan Cummins

476 - The Backpacker Killer: Ivan Milat

Oct 13, 2025
Explore the chilling tale of Ivan Milat, known as the Backpacker Killer, who haunted Australia in the 1990s. Discover how the remains of missing backpackers were found in Belanglo State Forest, revealing a pattern of horror. Learn about the survivor whose report led to Milat's arrest and the investigation's twists and turns. Delve into Milat's troubled upbringing, violent past, and the complex dynamics of his life. The episode highlights the impact of his crimes on victims' families and the ongoing intrigue surrounding unsolved cases.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Orienteers Find First Graves

  • Ken Sealy and his orienteering partner discovered the first two bodies in Belangolo after smelling a foul odor by a boulder.
  • Their find triggered the larger investigation that later uncovered more graves and signatures linking victims.
INSIGHT

Killer Returned To Same Clearing

  • Repeated evidence like cartridge cases, fireplace sites and victim belongings showed the killer returned frequently and staged scenes.
  • That behavior implied local knowledge and long, repeated stays in Belangolo State Forest.
ANECDOTE

Brother's Sightings Raise Questions

  • Alex Malat reported seeing bound women in vehicles entering the forest in April 1992 but failed to report immediately and later claimed he lost the license number he'd written down.
  • His statement entered the file but did not immediately make Ivan the primary suspect.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app