Forensic searches to be conducted as inquiries continue into 1994 disappearance of Revelle Balmain, NSW

NSW Police will execute three forensic searches under a Coronial Order as part of ongoing investigations into the 1994 disappearance of Revelle Balmain.

Revelle Balmain, then aged 22, was last seen in the Kingsford area on Saturday 5 November 1994.

Her personal property – including a make-up bag, keys and a shoe – was later found scattered near Ainslie Street.

Ms Balmain was reported missing later that evening and has not been seen or heard from since.

Despite extensive investigations by local police at the time and over the years, no one has been charged in relation to her disappearance.

A Coronial Inquest in 1999 found that Revelle had died at the hands of a person or persons unknown, and the matter was referred to the Unsolved Homicide Unit for future investigation.

Last year, a formal review of the case was conducted under the new unsolved framework and assigned to a senior detective from the Central Metropolitan Region for re-investigation under Strike Force Aramac.

In May this year, a $1 million reward was announced by the NSW Government, as part of a renewed appeal to the community to come forward with any information that may assist investigators with their inquiries into Ms Balmain’s disappearance.

Strike Force Aramac investigators have since engaged with the NSW Coroner, and it is expected that new lines of inquiry will be explored during a fresh Coronial Inquest at a future date.

As part of ongoing inquiries, Strike Force Aramac investigators will conduct three forensic searches under a Coronial Order at properties at Bellevue Hill, Bondi Beach and Potts Point from 9am today (Tuesday 30 November 2021).

Strike Force Aramac lead investigator, Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Bell, said officers are continuing to process and review all previously obtained evidence, as well as new reported information, in relation to Revelle’s disappearance.

“As part of ongoing inquiries, officers attached to Strike Force Aramac have been meticulously examining all former interviews, witness statements and exhibits, to ensure every possible avenue of investigation is exhausted,” Det Ch Insp Bell said.

“In addition, following the $1 million reward announcement and additional public appeals for information, we are now exploring a number of new lines of inquiry.

“This includes whether Revelle was scheduled to meet with any individuals – clients, friends or associates – previously unknown to police, on the evening of her disappearance.

“The locations that are being searched today will be subject to an extensive forensic examination by specialist officers attached to the Forensic Evidence and Technical Services (FETS) Command.

“We are now exploring a new line of inquiry and believe these locations are of significance and will help us progress the investigation.

“As investigations continue, we are urging anyone with information to contact police so we may provide much-needed answers to Revelle’s family,” Det Ch Insp Bell said.

Investigations under Strike Force Aramac are continuing.

Anyone with information which may assist Strike Force Aramac detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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