The gripping new podcast series from 9News Queensland and 9Podcasts, The Ultimate Sacrifice, launches today (July 15), delving into the harrowing events of December 12, 2022, when two police officers were murdered in a shocking ambush at Wieambilla, Queensland.
On a day that left an indelible mark on the state and shook the nation, a routine callout to a remote property in Wieambilla, west of Brisbane, plunged four young police officers into the grip of unimaginable evil.
Constables Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold died in a cold-blooded execution at the property, while their colleagues, Constables Randall Kirk and Keely Brough, bravely risked their lives to call for backup. Despite sustaining injuries, they miraculously escaped and survived the ambush. Innocent neighbour Alan Dare, who courageously sought to investigate the unfolding chaos, was also shot dead.
The Ultimate Sacrifice, led by the acclaimed duo of 9News Queensland presenter Melissa Downes and producer Jessica Lodge, who made the award-winning podcast Hannah’s Story, confronts the haunting question: how did a routine callout lead to Queensland’s deadliest police shooting and Australia’s first Christian terrorist attack?
In four compelling episodes dropping in the first two weeks, The Ultimate Sacrifice meticulously examines the events leading up to the deaths of six people, including the three killers.
The podcast will revisit the six-hour gun battle waged by the police officers, and explore the long-term investigation into conspiracy and religious extremism that reveals how the murderers – once respected teachers – turned to heinous violence. It also covers the arrest of an American man, discovered nearly a year after the ambush to be connected with the killers.
From Monday, July 29, the podcast will continue by tracking the four-week coronial inquest into the massacre with frequent episodes. Listeners will receive updates on unfolding evidence and conclusions, including testimonies, new details, previously unheard recordings, and crucial evidence revealing the heroism and camaraderie displayed on that tragic day.
Melissa Downes said: “December 12, 2022, is a day that left a lasting impression on us all, a stark reminder of how unexpected tragedy can profoundly touch our community forever. The Ultimate Sacrifice is our heartfelt exploration into the events of that unforgettable day and an earnest pursuit of answers. It is a tribute to the police lives lost and a solemn recognition of the bravery shown by all who responded.”
Jessica Lodge said: “Having witnessed the impact of our first 9News podcast, Hannah’s Story, we approached this new project with a sense of privilege and responsibility. As we uncover new evidence during the upcoming inquest, we hold the highest regard for Rachel and Matthew, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Our goal is to ensure their courage and the events of that fateful day are honoured with the utmost respect.”
Head of 9Podcasts, Mia Stern, said: “The team behind The Ultimate Sacrifice is exceptional, bringing award-winning talent to this new podcast. It will serve as a tool for understanding, education and emotional reflection as Australia revisits that harrowing day. With Melissa and Jessica leading the way, we have the perfect duo to navigate the complexities of this story with expertise and empathy.”
The Ultimate Sacrifice is available now wherever you get your podcasts (Spotify, Apple Podcasts). It is produced in a partnership between 9News and 9Podcasts.