Day five of the trial has concluded
We’ll be back at 10.30am tomorrow for live coverage.
Here’s what jurors heard today:
Erin’s estranged husband, Simon, denied asking her “is that what you used to poison them?” in the days immediately after the lethal mushroom lunch. It was alleged he was referring to the food dehydrator, the court heard, although it was not clarified who “them” referred to.
The court was shown a Facebook message Erin wrote in 2023 before the lunch, according to her online friend Daniela Barkley. It read “I’ve been hiding powdered mushrooms in everything. Mixed into chocolate brownies yesterday, the kids had no idea.”
A Facebook friend of Erin recalled her describing her estranged husband, Simon, as “coercive” and her in-laws as “demanding”. The three Facebook friends who gave evidence did not meet her in person but communicated in online true crime groups, online chats and phone calls.
The same witness, Christine Hunt, says Erin was “well regarded” in the Facebook group and known as a good researcher, describing her as a “super sleuth.”
Updated
Facebook friend says Erin Patterson loved mushrooms
Under cross-examination by Mandy, Hay says Erin “seemed to really like mushrooms.”
She says she gave Erin advice about making a beef wellington dish, suggesting she wrap the pastry as close as possible to avoid it becoming soggy.
Hay’s evidence has now concluded.
Updated
