Pheobe Bishop’s alleged murderer James Wood fronts court on weapons charges – with new look

One of the two housemates charged with Pheobe Bishop’s murder has returned to court with a surprise new (and more natural) look.

One of two housemates accused of killing Gin Gin teenager Pheobe Bishop has returned to court on unrelated weapons charges – and with a new look.

James Thomas Muir Wood’s appearance in Bundaberg Magistrate’s Court on Friday, was a far cry from last Friday’s frenzied courtroom proceedings, when the 34-year-old faced murder charges alongside his partner Tanika Bromley.

This time, the 34-year-old appeared via video-link in green and white prison garb, charged with multiple weapons offences dating back to May 19, 2025.

James Wood the housemate of missing Gin Gin girl Pheobe Bishop pictured sleeping in his car early on in the search for her. Picture Facebook

Wood’s appearance had also changed.

He appeared well-groomed and calm with his unruly hair and beard, previously dyed bleach blonde, returned to its natural ginger colouring.

James Wood flatmate of missing Gin Gin girl Pheobe Bishop pictured outside the Bundaberg Courthouse where he was supporting his partner Tanika Bromley

Mr Wood faced charges of one count of possession of a shortened firearm in public and authority to possess explosives.

His lawyer, Lavonda Maloy, told the court an application for Legal Aid funding had been made on his behalf.

The flatmate of missing teen Pheobe Bishop has fronted court on unrelated weapons charges

She asked the weapon charges be adjourned to a later date.

The charges will now return to court on August 11, coinciding with Wood’s second hearing on murder charges related to Pheobe’s disappearance.

No application for bail was made, and Wood remains in custody at the Maryborough Correctional Centre.

Outside the courthouse last Friday, June 6, Pheobe Bishop’s sister, appealed to anyone with information to come forward.

The 17-year-old had plans to fly from Bundaberg to Western Australia, via Brisbane to meet her boyfriend.

It is understood she was reported missing when she failed to arrive later that day.

James Wood’s hair is back to the above colour after it was briefly bleached blonde.

Detective Inspector Craig Mansfield told the media the 17-year-old did not make it to the airport but did make it to Airport Dr.

Human remains, believed to belong to Pheobe, have since been located during an extensive search in the rugged terrain near Gin Gin.

This coming Sunday marks one month since Pheobe was reported missing and her family have honoured the beloved teen’s life in a number of vigils, in Gin Gin and Bundaberg.

Originally published as Pheobe Bishop’s alleged murderer James Wood fronts court on weapons charges – with new look