Indigenous Missing Persons Support Services launch podcast to ensure no missing person is forgotten

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published April 7, 2025 at 11.05am (AWST)

The Indigenous Missing Persons Support Services (IMPSS) has launched its first podcast, aiming to give a voice to families of missing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The inaugural episode is hosted by Elijah and Marbuck Duroux, and features a conversation with Robin Cottman from Western Australia, who speaks on behalf of the family of Wesley Lockyer.

The podcast also includes Jill McCarthy, an IMPSS team member who works with her certified cadaver dog, Mickey.

Gamilaroi man John Lewis co-founded IMPSS with his partner Taz Millar.

Mr Lewis said many Aboriginal families of missing persons receive limited updates from authorities.

"So many Mob go missing, and families barely hear anything about a police investigation," he said.

"Most have a coroner conclude they are deceased, then that's pretty much it.

"IMPSS does not think that's good enough."

Taz Millar said IMPSS is working to expand nationally to ensure every state has a dedicated representative supporting families.

"Our WA representative, Stephenie Carol, John's cousin, is doing amazing work representing IMPSS, supporting families in the Western State," Ms Millar said.

"Our team will continue to grow as we are looking at expanding to have a representative in each state."

"There needs to be a voice for these families. They need support."

Wesley Lockyer was last seen on 24 October 2022 in Jinparinya, a community 20 kilometres north of Port Hedland.

He was reported missing one week later.

The family said Wesley's disappearance raised alarm after his phone and wallet were found at home, which was out of character for someone known to be active on social media.

His case occurred during the same month as two other disappearances of Aboriginal men from the North-West - Clinton Lockyer from Roebourne, and a young man from Fitzroy Crossing.

Mr Duroux, Ms Leonie Duroux and Mr Marbuck Duroux are closely connected to the Bowraville case, which involved the 1991 death of Clinton Speedy-Duroux.

The family continues to call for justice, with the person believed responsible never convicted.

Mr Lewis said IMPSS would continue using online platforms to raise awareness.

"Between social media and a podcast, we will continue to assist families being heard," he said.

"And most importantly, not let any missing be forgotten."

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National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.