Retired judge discusses career and mushroom murder trial on podcast

A retired Victorian Supreme Court judge reflected on his career and the high-profile Erin Patterson murder trial during an appearance on the legal podcast William and Lonsdale. The judge presided over the trial in which Erin Patterson was convicted of murdering three relatives by serving them a meal containing poisonous mushrooms.

Patterson received a life sentence with a non-parole period of 33 years.

Early life and education The judge grew up in Melbourne's west before moving to Toorak and later studying in New York. While in New York he performed in a school production of Guys and Dolls. He has cited the book and film To Kill a Mockingbird as an influence on his decision to pursue a legal career.

Path through law and priesthood After completing an arts-law degree, the judge worked at Victorian legal aid and later at the bar. Two years into practice he moved to Sydney to train as a Jesuit priest, spending time in silence, prayer, and service at various communities.

He described a pilgrimage in South Australia during which he had to beg for food and accommodation. After several years he returned to Melbourne and resumed work as a barrister.

The Patterson trial and retirement The judge was appointed to the Victorian Supreme Court in 2014 and retired in December 2025, months after sentencing Patterson. The trial was held in Morwell at Patterson's request. Appeals by both the prosecution and Patterson's lawyers are scheduled for August 19 and 20 in the Court of Appeal.

The judge said the jury had acted conscientiously but noted he was limited in what he could say due to the appeals. He said he is comfortable with retirement and that several family members are now pursuing legal careers.