Mackay court schedules new coronial inquiry into 1972 schoolgirl disappearance

A pre-inquest conference held in Mackay set the stage for a new coronial inquiry into the long-standing mystery of Marilyn Joy Wallman, a 14-year-old who disappeared on her way to school in March 1972. Witnesses recounted that her bicycle and school belongings were found near a cane field, and a hat was recovered during the initial search. In 1974 a partial human skull was uncovered, and DNA analysis in 2006 confirmed it belonged to Wallman.

Counsel John Aberdeen addressed the court, urging anyone with relevant information to reach out to the coroner’s registry, and outlined the inquiry’s mandate to determine Wallman’s status, the circumstances of her suspected death, and any potential involvement of others. A roster of fourteen witnesses has been prepared for a series of hearings slated for later this year. Family members expressed a mix of anxiety and relief at finally having another formal examination of the case.