Chris Dawson is a man of good character, badly let down by police and unfairly tainted over the disappearance of his wife: that’s the essence of the Defence’s closing address on behalf of the accused. Finally, the court got to hear Dawson’s side of the story. Through barrister Pauline David, he admitted having behaved ‘horribly’ towards Lyn by beginning a relationship with babysitter JC, leaving his wife in such despair she walked out and cut off all contact with her family.

We heard from a surprising defence witness, and got some clues about Justice Ian Harrison’s thinking, as he sought Ms David’s rebuttal of the Crown’s case. We hear the voices of Dawson family insiders, including Chris himself, in flashbacks to The Teacher’s Pet investigation.

This is our longest episode yet, as we explore the fine detail of Chris’ claims to be an innocent man, wrongly persecuted. 

To read The Australian’s ongoing coverage of the trial search The Teacher’s Trial or click here.

The National Sexual Assault Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service can be reached on 1800RESPECT.  Lifeline can be reached on 13 11 14.