Former Jetstar Pilot Greg Lynn Seeks Bail Ahead of Murder Retrial
Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn, aged 59, is seeking to be released back into the community as he prepares for a retrial over the alleged murder of Carol Clay. Lynn was accused of murdering campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill in Victoria's High Country in March 2020.
Conviction Overturned and Retrial Ordered
In November 2024, Lynn was sentenced to 32 years in jail after being found guilty of Ms Clay's murder, but acquitted of the murder of Mr Hill. However, in December last year, three Court of Appeal judges overturned his murder conviction for Ms Clay due to 'a number of serious irregularities in the course of the trial' that gave rise to a miscarriage of justice. This decision cleared the way for a retrial over Ms Clay's death.
Bail Application in Supreme Court
Lynn fronted the court on Thursday seeking release into the community before his retrial over Ms Clay's alleged murder. Supreme Court judge David Beach indicated that the Supreme Court could accommodate his trial as early as July this year. 'The court contemplates the trial will occur this year, not next year,' he said, adding that a judge, not him, is ready to hear it from July 13.
Legal Arguments for Bail
Criminal barrister Dermot Dann KC represented Lynn, who was also supported at court by his son and wife, Melanie. Dann KC submitted that Lynn had been assaulted while spending an extended period in custody awaiting trial and argued that Lynn should be bailed for 'exceptional circumstances.' The court heard Lynn has spent two years and three months on remand, which Dann KC said 'has to be factored into delay.' 'He is presumed innocent and has the right to liberty,' Dann KC stated.
Family Support and Accommodation Plans
The court heard Lynn will live in 'stable accommodation' with his son Geordie if released. 'He's got a tight family unit … he's got a role to play in that family unit,' Mr Dann said. Dann added that Lynn's son had offered his life savings and property equity as security for his father’s release. The court also heard that Lynn and his wife would be celebrating 22 years of marriage on Saturday.
Vulnerability in Custody
Dann KC further argued that his client was vulnerable in custody and was placed in an isolation unit for a time while in jail. Justice Beach indicated he would not be making a decision on the bail application on Thursday, instead taking a week to consider the matter, with Lynn to remain in custody during this period.
