Businessman Graeme Elphinstone appears for counts of interfering with Aboriginal relics
A prominent Tasmanian businessman has objected to a key witness giving evidence in the case of multiple counts of interfering with Aboriginal relics. What happened in court.
Tasmania
Don't miss out on the headlines from Tasmania. Followed categories will be added to My News.
An audibly frustrated Graeme Elphinstone objected to a key witness appearing remotely to give evidence on nine counts of interfering with an Aboriginal relic, a court has heard.
Mr Elphinstone pleaded not guilty to nine counts of interfering with an Aboriginal relic in August 2024.
The matter was mentioned in the Hobart Magistrates court on Tuesday and Mr Elphinstone, who is representing himself in the matter, appeared by phone.
The charges relate to a trench dug at a property at Little Swanport between January 1, 2023 and January 31, 2023.
The prosecution sought leave for archaeologist Kate Moody, who was employed by Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania at the time of the charges, to give evidence remotely as she is now located interstate.
Mr Elphinstone told the court he was not happy with the suggestion and Magistrate Marron took it as an objection.
“I think they should be there in person if they are going to give evidence,” Mr Elphinstone said.
“This whole thing is frustrating the hell out of me.”
Magistrate Marron told Mr Elphinstone to pause the frustration and directed the prosecution to make a formal application for Ms Moody to appear remotely supported by an affidavit.
Another key witness in the case is understood by the prosecution to be living “off grid”, and she indicated the intention would be to rely on his report.
Under the Aboriginal Relics Act 1975 it is an offence to destroy, damage, disfigure, conceal, or otherwise interfere with a protected object or relic.
If found guilty of all nine counts Mr Elphinstone faces a maximum penalty of $9,000 fine or 4.5 years imprisonment.
The matter was adjourned until 14 March with Mr Elphinstone to appear by phone.
Trailer fire at northern Tas petrol station
Fire crews are currently on the scene of a semi-trailer fire in northern Tasmania, located next to a petrol station. The latest.
Impromptu PM drops in for Bass lunch, battery scheme spruik
It’s the last ditch attempt at campaigning as we approach next Saturday’s election date. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made his third visit to Tasmania for a volunteer BBQ.