Beaumont search: Harry Phipps ‘is still the only credible suspect’

MOSTYN Matters has lived the Beaumont tragedy from the very beginning. Now 84, he was on duty at Glenelg police station when Jim Beaumont asked for help to find his three children.

• Beaumont Children: Satin Man author standing by theory
• Police end dig having found no human remains
• Hopes police dig will finally resolve 52-year mystery

AS EXCAVATORS tore into the earth and a small army of media invaded Kinkaid Ave, an 84-year old man sat quietly in the shade on a park bench across the road.

Mostyn Matters has lived the Beaumont tragedy from the very beginning.

Now 84, Mr Matters was on duty at Glenelg police station when a man called Jim Beaumont entered and asked for help to find his three children, Jane, Arnna and Grant.

Mr Matters’ retains the stoicism of a retired policeman — but still yearns for the Beaumont case to be solved.

“Oh yes, you wouldn’t be human otherwise. I was right there at the start and have seen it all, it’s gone on for the last 50-odd years,” he said.

The Satin Man author Stuart Mullins with retired Glenelg police officer Mostyn Matters at Castalloy, North Plympton, on Friday. Picture: Ben Brennan

“I suppose it’s human nature, you just want to see a result, just for the parents’ sake if nothing else.”

Mr Matters formed a deep bond with Jim and Nancy Beaumont, watching as their marriage dissolved under the weight of unimaginable pain.

“There were a lot of crackpots who made allegations they were responsible. They went through that, and eventually it got to them,” he said.

He still believes that Harry Phipps was the culprit among the throng of suspects.

Adelaide businessman, Harry Phipps.

“It’s the only credible one. It all ties in with Harry Phipps.

“He wasn’t heard of back in those days, it’s only the last 10 years that his name has come to light.”

Fellow retired detective Bill Hayes echoed the sadness and frustration felt by Australians.

“There hasn’t been another case like this where three siblings went missing never to be seen again anywhere in the world,” Mr Hayes said. “I haven’t dealt with anyone who experienced that ... the information had to be followed up.”