Man accused of sex attack on backpackers in the Coorong ‘looking for wife’

THE man accused of a harrowing attack on two female backpackers on a remote Coorong beach has several online profiles. Find out how he described himself and what his neighbours have to say.

• THE ALLEGED CRIME: Backpackers’ harrowing beach escape
• THE SCENE: Isolated and quiet, this beach should be a relaxation haven

THE man accused of a harrowing attack on two female backpackers on a remote Coorong beach has several online profiles, including a dating site on which he says he is looking for a future wife.

The southern suburbs man, aged in his 50s, cannot be identified because as an accused sex attacker his identity is automatically suppressed under state law.

He states on the dating site that he is respectful to women, is looking for a future wife and to meet girls for dating, friendship and serious relationships.

The man had only been living at his address for less than a year, according to neighbours.

They said they were awakened by police who were searching the man’s house on Tuesday night around 12.30am.

“We could see police officers and detectives going inside the house and see the flash of cameras going off,’’ said the female neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous.

“This fella pretty much kept to himself, he didn’t wave when he drove past so I didn’t really know him but he was in pretty good shape for his age, he was a big tall bloke.’’

There were two cars parked in the driveway of the modest home yesterday and an open-top roundabout boat with outboard motor on the front lawn.

Neighbours said the man would often run the boat’s motor for an hour during the afternoon, irrespective of the noise pollution it caused.

The house appeared empty and no rubbush bins had been left out for collection.

The man’s social media accounts, including Facebook, feature several photos of camping, beaches, fishing, boating and family life.

In his dating profile, he also says he wants to find a kind woman to start a new life with.

He says it would be desirable if the woman can cook, likes kids, is well presented, slender, athletic, respectful and honest.

The man also states his desire for the woman to be able to share in his love of the outdoors.

He also says he is down to earth, kind, thoughtful, not a racist and not a gambler.

Other online profiles show the man is eager to learn languages and to travel.

He has been charged with attempted murder, unlawful sexual intercourse without consent, unlawful detention and aggravated causing serious harm.

The statutory suppression on his identity will cease when he pleads to the charge and the case leaves the Magistrates Court and moves to a higher jurisdiction.

Police in the Coorong, near where two women were allegedly kidnapped and assaulted. Photo: Calum Robertson