2GB broadcaster Ben Fordham calls on NSW DPP to examine fresh evidence in Lyn Dawson case

Ben Fordham has called on the public to lobby the DPP to examine fresh evidence about the disappearance of Lyn Dawson.

Lynette Dawson. Picture: Supplied

A leading broadcaster has called on the public to lobby the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in NSW to examine fresh evidence regarding the disappearance of Lynette Dawson.

As the public campaign gathers momentum in the wake of the podcast series The Teacher’s Pet, 2GB host Ben Fordham explained how crucial this step was to delivering justice to Lyn’s family.

The podcast series, a result of a six-month investigation by The Australian’s Hedley Thomas, has uncovered fresh evidence in the case.

Fordham was joined by Merilyn Simms, Lyn’s sister-in-law, as he delivered a passionate plea for a “high-action approach”.

“The past can’t be changed, we need to focus on the here and now,” Fordham said. “And right now, in June 2018, everyone who has the power to bring justice to the family of Lynette has to get off their arses and start delivering.

“That means a high-energy approach from NSW Police, which should include sitting down with Hedley Thomas and analysing his new evidence, and police should consider digging for Lynette’s body at the old family home in Bayview.

“It also means the Director of Public Prosecutions, Lloyd Babb, should give his personal attention to this matter when considering whether there’s enough new evidence to bring a charge of murder against Chris Dawson.”

Mrs Simms, wife of Lyn’s brother Greg, called on Mr Babb to examine the fresh evidence uncovered by the podcast series as the family seek closure.

Lyn's brother Greg Simms, his wife Merilyn Simms, The Australian’s Hedley Thomas and Lyn's sister Pat Jenkis at the Teacher's Pet Q&A. Picture: Hollie Adams

“We would like very thorough and careful examination of every piece of evidence that’s come forward,” Mrs Simms said. “We realise there’s lots of evidence … and every little piece builds to make the bigger picture. We urge you, please, give it a thorough investigation.

“We’re hoping to find Lyn and to be able to put her to rest in the manner which she deserves.”

She also detailed how the family learn of new discoveries in the case, sitting together to listen to each episode of The Teacher’s Pet.

“We sit together in a quiet room, often holding hands. We often look at each other in amazement when we hear new information. Every podcast reveals more and more about how many different people have been affected by this case. It’s not only Lyn’s disappearance, it’s the sexual assaults on young girls … it blows us away.”

The 2GB host joined members of Lyn’s family and other readers of The Australian at a subscribers-only Q&A event in Sydney last night, an experience Mrs Simms described as “overwhelming”.

2GB presenter Ben Fordham. Picture: AAP

“You felt like you were having a collective hug from the people that were in that room. It was astounding … it’s just buoyed us to keep going,” she said.

Earlier this week The Teacher’s Pet surpassed one million downloads in just six weeks.

Episode seven is available now below, or via your podcast app of choice.

The ‘Looking for Lynette Dawson’ Facebook page can be found here.

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