“My mum matters”: $1m reward in 28-year Barter mystery

THE NSW Police Force has announced a $1 million reward to help solve the 28-year disappearance of Marion Barter.

Barter was reported missing to police in Byron Bay in October 1997, prompting an investigation by detectives from the Tweed-Byron Local Area Command.

She was last seen on 22 June 1997 at a bus depot on Scarborough Street near Railway Street at Southport, on the Gold Coast.

In July 2019, the case underwent a formal review by the Tweed-Byron Police District and State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, Unsolved Homicide Unit.

Her daughter, Sally Leydon, joined Police Minister Yasmin Catley to announce the increased reward, up from $500,000.

“Today my mum has been missing for 10,544 days,” Leydon said.

“Someone knows something. For nearly three decades I’ve searched for answers. We’ve followed leads, spoken to investigators and held on to hope.”

A coronial inquest held in Sydney and Byron Bay in June 2021 examined extensive evidence gathered over decades.

On 29 February 2024, the NSW State Coroner found Ms Barter, also known as Florabella Natalia Marion Remakel, to be deceased, likely after 15 October 1997, but was unable to determine the cause or manner of her death.

“I stand here as a mother of three, the same age my mum was when the coroner declared her deceased,” Leydon said.

“I encourage people to inform themselves and understand the full context of what was uncovered, and to consider whether they know anything that can assist police.

“This is a significant step forward and it sends a clear message that my mum is not forgotten and that Marion matters.”

The coroner recommended that State Crime Command’s Unsolved Homicide Unit continue its regular review and monitoring of the case.

Homicide Squad Commander Joe Doueihi said the findings reinforced the need for ongoing investigative focus.

“The Unsolved Homicide Unit remains actively engaged, reviewing every lead and pursuing every possible avenue to determine what happened to Marion,” Det Supt Doueihi said.

“The increase in the reward to $1 million reflects the seriousness with which we continue to treat Marion Barter’s disappearance.

“Marion’s family have endured heartbreak and uncertainty for the last 28 years. They deserve clarity and justice. We are urging anyone with information to come forward.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the NSW Crime Stoppers website.