News Corp Australia has unveiled a new investigative multimedia series titled 'Dear Rachelle: The Hunt For My Sister’s Killer' delving into the unsolved murder of 23-year-old Rachelle Childs, whose body was discovered on the New South Wales South Coast in 2001. Childs was found dumped and set alight after reportedly planning to meet someone at a country pub.

The series spans podcast, video, and editorial formats, comprising of ten episodes spearheaded by investigative journalist Ashlea Hansen alongside cold case specialist Damian Loone. Loone, a retired Detective Sergeant, is noted for his involvement in high-profile cold cases, including his contribution to 'The Teacher’s Pet' podcast. This podcast was instrumental in the conviction of Chris Dawson for the murder of his wife Lynette.

Executive production of the series is managed by Rachel Fountain, with Sarah Blake, News Corp Network National Editor and Executive Editor of 'Dear Rachelle', playing a significant role in the project.

"Rachelle's family has spent more than two decades searching for answers about her murder and has hit roadblock after roadblock," said Blake. "We hope that by bringing the reach and power of News’ state mastheads to this case we can finally answer the question of what happened to Rachelle."

The investigative effort includes breaking down the brief of evidence, scrutinising inconsistencies in alibis, and uncovering new evidence and witnesses. The project also benefits from the contributions of Gold Walkley award-winning writer Patrick Carlyon.

The series is supported by editorial coverage across several major publications, including The Daily Telegraph in New South Wales, Herald Sun in Victoria, The Courier-Mail in Queensland, and The Advertiser in South Australia.