Episode Details

In this episode of pplpod, we delve into the terrifying crimes of Ivan Milat, Australia’s notorious "Backpacker Murderer". Between 1989 and 1992, Milat preyed on hitchhikers along the Hume Highway, transporting them to the remote Belanglo State Forest where he robbed, incapacitated, and murdered them. We examine the grisly discovery of seven victims—including British backpackers Caroline Clarke and Joanne Walters, and German couple Gabor Neugebauer and Anja Habschied—whose remains revealed brutal torture, shooting, and decapitation.

We also cover the massive investigation launched by "Task Force Air" and the critical breakthrough provided by Paul Onions, a survivor who escaped an armed attack by Milat in 1990. Hear how police linked Milat to the crimes through ballistics and victims' possessions found in his home, leading to his conviction in 1996 and seven consecutive life sentences. Finally, we look at Milat's early life in a family of 14 children, his death in prison in 2019, and the haunting suspicion that he may be responsible for dozens of other cold cases across Australia.