Detectives from the Crime and Intelligence Command are hopeful that the announcement of a Queensland Government reward of $500,000 will bring in new information to assist police investigations into the murder of Meaghan Louise Rose on the Sunshine Coast in 1997.
On 18 July 1997, 25-year-old Meaghan Rose was located deceased at the base of Point Cartwright Cliffs at Mooloolaba.
Her vehicle which contained a number of personal items was located at the top of the cliffs.
Initial investigations suggested her death was non-suspicious, however new information came to light revealing suspicious circumstances, including a life insurance policy which was taken out prior to her death.
Joining police as the $500,000 reward was announced, Meaghan’s sister Fiona Ratcliffe said their family is hopeful someone out there will have the information police need to provide them answers.
“Meaghan was a loved friend to everyone she met. Meaghan was my best friend,” Ms Ratcliffe said.
“I would like to ask the greater community for any information regarding Meaghan’s death to please come forward to help bring closure to her family.”
Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell said the Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team is re-examining the case and officers are confident it could be solved.
“We’re particularly appealing to members of the community who knew Meaghan around the time of her death, many whom live at the Sunshine Coast and Victoria, to think back and provide any information about her no matter how irrelevant they think it may be,” Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said.
“A number of lines of enquiry are being examined as we speak, and while we cannot go into detail around investigative strategies to ensure the integrity of the case, we are confident this reward will bring forward vital information,”
As part of their investigation, police are also appealing to anyone who might have seen Meaghan’s white 1995 Suzuki Chino hatchback, with registration 415DNN, or anyone who was in the vicinity of Point Cartwright on the evening of July 17, 1997.
The $500,000 Queensland Government Reward is for information which leads to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this murder. The Government reward further offers an opportunity for indemnity against prosecution for any accomplice, not being the person who actually committed the murder, who first gives such information.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
