Former Airline Pilot Remains in Custody Ahead of New Murder Trial
Greg Lynn, a 59-year-old former Jetstar pilot, has been denied bail by the Victorian Supreme Court as he pursues a permanent stay in his retrial for the murder of 73-year-old grandmother Carol Clay. The decision was handed down by Justice David Beach on Thursday, keeping Lynn in custody for nearly three years since his initial arrest.
Overturned Conviction and Legal Proceedings
Lynn was found guilty in 2024 of murdering Carol Clay at a remote campsite in Victoria's Wonnangatta valley in March 2020. However, the Victorian Court of Appeal overturned this conviction in December, citing a substantial miscarriage of justice in the earlier trial. He had been acquitted of murdering Russell Hill, 74, Clay's fellow camper and lover. The court ordered a new trial, which could commence as early as July, according to recent statements from Justice Beach.
Bail Application and Defense Arguments
During the bail hearing, Dermot Dann KC, representing Lynn, argued that a fair trial would be compromised if held before 2028 and requested bail for his client. Lynn's son, Geordie, offered a surety exceeding $400,000 and proposed housing his father, with commitments to report any bail breaches to authorities. The prosecution acknowledged that Lynn did not pose an unacceptable risk of reoffending if released.
"If we value the concept of a fair trial, and we're serious about that, how can we possibly subject this man to a trial under these circumstances," Dann stated in court. He emphasized the injustice of keeping Lynn incarcerated while awaiting a resolution that might only come with time.
Next Steps in the Case
Justice Beach noted that any application for a stay, whether temporary or permanent, must be addressed by the trial judge in July. The case continues to draw significant attention as legal experts and the public monitor developments in this high-profile murder trial.
