In a brief but heartfelt address outside the Supreme Court, Ian Wilkinson expressed gratitude following the conviction and sentencing of Erin Patterson. The comments, captured by 7NEWS Australia, reflect a family and community coming to terms with a devastating loss while recognising the work of investigators, prosecutors and support services that helped bring the case to a close.
Table of Contents
- Case summary and sentence
- Thanking investigators and prosecutors
- Tribute to support services and public health staff
- Community, compassion and a call to kindness
- Request for privacy and closing remarks
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Case summary and sentence
Mushroom cook Erin Patterson was sentenced to life in prison with a non‑parole period of 33 years for the murders of three family members. The sentence and conviction have prompted a public response from one of the victims’ relatives, who stood outside the court to thank those involved in the investigation and prosecution.
Thanking investigators and prosecutors
Wilkinson opened his remarks by offering "well earned thanks" and singled out the Victoria Police for their work. He praised the homicide team for bringing "to light the truth of what happened" and expressed deep appreciation for their professional skill.
“They brought to light the truth of what happened with the death of three good people.”
He also personally thanked the Office of Public Prosecutions, led by senior counsel Nanette Rogers, noting that the court process can be "bewildering to lay people" and that the prosecutors’ expertise, hard work and perseverance were crucial in securing the conviction.
Tribute to support services and public health staff
Beyond police and prosecutors, Wilkinson acknowledged the many public health services and agencies that assisted in the aftermath. He emphasised that so many people played a part that he could not name them all individually, but asked each to "accept my sincere gratitude for the part that you have played in this process."
“We’re thankful that when things go wrong, there are good people and services and systems available to help us recover.”
Community, compassion and a call to kindness
Wilkinson used his platform to highlight the role of community kindness in recovery. He urged those who served in the investigation and supporting agencies to "keep turning up and serving others," and he appealed to the wider public to be kind.
“Our lives and the life of our community depends on the kindness of others. I’d like to encourage everybody to be kind to each other.”
He specifically thanked communities across Australia and overseas for their messages and prayers, singling out the people of Leeuangatha and Karimburra for their "thoughtfulness and care" which he described as a great encouragement.
Request for privacy and closing remarks
As he concluded, Wilkinson asked for privacy while the family continues to grieve and heal, and offered a final word of thanks to those who had listened and supported them.
“Please respect our privacy as we continue to grieve and heal.”
He closed on a simple note of gratitude: "Thank you for listening. I hope you all have a great day."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Who spoke outside the Supreme Court?
Victim relative Ian Wilkinson delivered the statement thanking investigators, prosecutors, support services and the community following the sentencing.
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What was the sentence for Erin Patterson?
Erin Patterson was sentenced to life in prison with a non‑parole period of 33 years for the murders of three family members.
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Who was acknowledged for their work?
Wilkinson thanked the Victoria Police homicide team, the Office of Public Prosecutions led by senior counsel Nanette Rogers, and numerous public health services and agencies involved in the aftermath.
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What did Wilkinson ask of the public?
He asked for privacy as the family continues to grieve and urged everyone to be kind to one another, emphasising the importance of community support.
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Which communities were specifically thanked?
Wilkinson expressed particular gratitude to the people of Leeuangatha and Karimburra for their thoughtfulness and care.
Conclusion
The statement outside the Supreme Court was a measured and heartfelt expression of thanks amid a painful chapter for one family. It recognised the combined roles of police, prosecutors, health services and the broader community in seeking justice and supporting recovery. As the family asks for privacy to heal, the remarks stand as a reminder of the human cost behind court headlines and the importance of compassion in the wake of tragedy.
