01 Lies in Lismore | The backpackers
Summary
Investigative journalist Richard Baker revisits the 2005 disappearance of German backpacker Simone Strobel in Lismore, Australia. The episode details the initial police interviews with her boyfriend Tobias, the community's grief, and the discovery of her body near a caravan park. It highlights the town's supportive response to the travelers before revealing that the group had been lying to authorities, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the case's unresolved mysteries.
Topics discussed
Introduction and content warning
Tobias reports his girlfriend missing
Tobias describes the night and argument
Host introduction and case background
Simone Strobel's life and arrival in Australia
Tour of Lismore locations with local journalist
Initial police search and media response
Community reaction and rumors of a serial killer
Detailed timeline of the final day
Tobias's final interview with police
Discovery of Simone's body
Aftermath and the 'Kindergarten Cop' headline
Community memorial and grief
Fundraising to help Tobias return home
Revelation of lies and episode teaser
Closing remarks and call to action
Listen ad-free on Castria