Statement from Mayor Schelling

Published Monday, 07th July 2025

Mayor John Schelling has released a short statement in relation to the trial verdict.

"South Gippsland Shire Council is pleased that the trial is concluded, and a verdict has now been reached. I will not comment on the details of the case or on whether or not I believe the verdict to be correct. That’s for others to determine. But I think I speak for many in South Gippsland by saying I hope that today’s outcome can help to bring closure.

This case has drawn international media attention, and it’s important to remember that our region is made up of small, close-knit communities.

Korumburra and Leongatha—two towns suddenly and unexpectedly thrust into the global spotlight—each have populations of around 5,000.

The people involved in this case are not just names in headlines; they are locals. They are people many of us know, or sadly, knew. Their families remain part of our community.

Our hope now is that, with the trial behind us, the focus on our region can ease, and the healing process—for everyone affected—can begin."

~ Mayor John Schelling