In Melbourne, the Supreme Court of Victoria has become the stage for one of the most haunting cases Australia has seen in years.
Erin Patterson, the woman convicted of murdering her in-laws with a death cap mushroom–laced lunch, returned to court for her pre-sentence hearing.
This hearing isn’t about guilt—that was decided last month when she was found guilty of killing Don and Gail Patterson and Gail’s sister Heather Wilkinson, while also attempting to murder Heather’s husband, Pastor Ian Wilkinson.
Instead, the focus is on the impact of her crimes and the life that awaits her behind bars.
Life Inside the Gordon Unit
The court heard disturbing details of Patterson’s current existence inside prison.
Locked away in the Gordon Unit at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, she spends 23 hours a day alone in her cell.
She has minimal interaction with others—her only contact is with another prisoner through a mesh fence in the courtyard.
Authorities explained that inmates in this highly restrictive environment require extra supervision, whether for safety, behavioural, or mental health reasons.
Although isolated, Patterson isn’t entirely deprived of comforts.
Her cell is stocked with personal items—a TV, computer, pillows, crochet supplies, a fan, and even a hair straightener.
She has refused chaplain visits and rehabilitation programs but passes time crocheting.
Meals and medication are slid through a trapdoor, and at times, extended lockdowns caused by staff shortages have kept her confined even longer.
Moving Between Units
Corrections officials revealed that Patterson’s status as a “major offender” because of intense media scrutiny has shaped where she’s housed.
Since her arrest in November 2023, she’s shifted between the Gordon and Murray Protection Units.
While at Murray, she had access to small kitchenettes where inmates could prepare their own meals.
But after multiple transfers, she is now back in Gordon, where the restrictions remain tight.
Simon Patterson’s Anguish and Anger
Simon Patterson, Erin’s estranged husband and son of two of the victims, did not hold back in his victim impact statement.
He condemned both the justice system and relentless media attention, which he described as “dehumanising.”
He painted a grim picture of reporters lurking outside his home, knocking on windows, and ambushing him and his children in public.
Simon’s greatest heartbreak, however, is reserved for his children, who lost their grandparents and must grow up knowing their mother was responsible.
He said Erin created “hurdles” that robbed their kids of a normal relationship with her.
Despite the pain, he described his children as strong and resilient, praising their ability to keep moving forward with the support of family and community.
Remembering Parents Lost Too Soon
Simon also spoke of his deep grief for his parents. “I miss my parents in more than words can express,” he said, adding that the love, wisdom, and humour they brought to his life was now gone.
He admitted that the knowledge they could still be alive, had Erin not chosen to poison them, will weigh on him for the rest of his life.
Nephew Tim Patterson Calls Erin the “Author of Death”
Tim Patterson, Don’s nephew, described his anxiety and torment after the mushroom lunch.
He called Erin the “author” of his uncle and aunts’ demise, struggling to put into words the devastation of losing people who shaped his life.
He described sleepless nights, panic, and an unbearable sense of injustice.
Families United in Heartbreak
Other relatives also spoke through statements read to the court.
Don’s mother Marsha said her family was “broken” by the loss, while his brother Colin described it as a “spiritual loss.”
Heather’s sister Lynette remembered her as a bright and loving presence and recalled the horror of watching their father grieve as multiple family members died.
Ruth Dubois’ Raw Condemnation
Perhaps the most striking words came from Ruth Dubois, daughter of Pastor Ian Wilkinson and Heather.
She called Patterson’s actions “evil,” condemning her mother’s killer for deliberately planning the murders.
She spoke of her mother’s kindness and selflessness, and the devastation of watching her family torn apart.
Pastor Ian Wilkinson’s Forgiveness
In a moment of extraordinary grace, Pastor Ian Wilkinson—the sole survivor of the poisoned lunch—stood before the court to offer forgiveness.
He described the sorrow Erin had caused but said he bore her no ill will.
“Now I am no longer Erin Patterson’s victim,” he said softly. “She has become the victim of my kindness.”
He thanked God and doctors for saving his life, and through tears, paid tribute to his late wife, Heather, describing their 44 years together as full of love, humour, and shared faith.
A Broken Community Still Searching for Peace
The hearing showed not only the immense personal devastation caused by Erin Patterson’s actions but also the ripple effect across an entire community.
Family members, neighbours, and church friends all described an ongoing nightmare of grief, confusion, and attempts at healing.
What Happens Next for Erin Patterson
This pre-sentence hearing will continue over the coming days.
Prosecutors have laid out the gravity of Patterson’s crimes, while her defence team will attempt to present mitigating factors such as her upbringing.
However, without remorse or a guilty plea, Patterson cannot expect leniency.
The final decision now rests with Justice Christopher Beale, who will decide how long Erin Patterson spends behind bars for the mushroom murders that shook Australia.
