Bond University students will be given an insight into one of Australia’s most highly-publicised murder cases when Daniel Morcombe’s parents Bruce and Denise Morcombe present a guest lecture on July 24.
Discussing the issues of victimology through an interactive presentation and forum, students will be able to ask questions and engage with the couple in a classroom environment.
Criminology Professor Dr Terry Goldsworthy explained Bond University’s victimology course is one of the first to focus purely on the victims and looks to address the lack of attention paid to the victims of crime through a two-fold application process.
“Firstly we look to educate our students on the theories of victimisation, fear of crime and prevention while secondly applying these theories to areas including human rights, victim impact statements, the use of family groups and restorative styles of justice,” he explained.
“By having experts or relevant speakers from the particular field of study deliver guest lecturers to the students, we are able to best prepare them for those real-life situations that await them after graduation.”
“The experiences of Bruce and Denise will provide students a deep understanding of the issues surrounding victimology while providing them with an insight into what goes on behind the scenes in tragic events like this,” said Professor Goldsworthy.
Daniel James Morcombe was a 13-year-old Australian boy who was abducted from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, on 7 December 2003.
In August 2011 Brett Peter Cowan, a former Sunshine Coast resident, was charged with Daniel’s murder. In the same month, DNA tests confirmed bones found in an area being searched by police were Daniel’s.
This case in particular provides students with a rare insight into a current situation where investigations are still being carried out, says Professor Goldsworthy.
“By giving students the chance to engage with Daniel’s parents there is an opportunity to see a unique side of a case where the survivors are also victims,” he explained.
“In this particular case, our students are looking at a case of homicide where the actual victim has passed, but family and loved ones must deal with the ongoing effect of the crime.”