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.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pattern Emerges From Bodies
- The Belangolo murders revealed a repeating pattern: hitchhikers tortured, paralyzed and executed in remote bushland.
- That pattern prompted police to form a serial killer task force and focus on links between victims and highways.
Survivor Paul Onions' Escape
- Paul Onions survived a 1990 abduction attempt after accepting a hitchhike and escaping when the attacker revealed a gun and rope.
- His later identification of Ivan Malat became pivotal in linking Malat to the backpacker murders.
Forensic Signature Points To Predator
- Forensic evidence showed consistent signatures: spine-severing stabs that would paralyze victims and mixed methods of killing.
- Those details suggested a planned, sadistic offender familiar with the forest and comfortable spending extended time at scenes.
