Far North Queensland in Australia, with its white sandy beaches and lush rainforest-covered mountains, was the ideal home for 24-year-old Toyah Cordingley. She enjoyed the outdoor life, relishing in nature, exploring waterfalls, and strolling along the picturesque coastline with her cherished dog, Indie.
Toyah dedicated her time to caring for animals at the Paws and Claws shelter in Port Douglas, where she had a reputation for soothing even the most distressed animals. Additionally, she worked at a health food and pharmacy store, where she was well-liked by customers. With a boyfriend named Marco and plans to be a bridesmaid at her best friend’s wedding, Toyah was full of optimism and enthusiasm for the future.
Tragically, on a sunny Sunday afternoon on October 21, 2018, Toyah visited Rusty’s Market in Cairns before heading 40km north to Wangetti Beach to walk her dog. Concern arose when she did not return, prompting a search that led to the heartbreaking discovery of her lifeless body under a tree, with Indie found nearby tied tightly to a tree.
Investigations revealed that Toyah had suffered over 26 stab wounds, leading to her tragic death. Despite a community-wide effort to seek justice, the killer managed to evade capture initially. It was not until years later that a significant reward led to the arrest of Rajwinder Singh in India, who was eventually convicted of Toyah’s murder after a lengthy legal process.
The court trials, filled with emotional testimonies and evidence, finally brought closure to Toyah’s family and the community. Singh was sentenced to life in prison, with a parole period of 25 years, for the heinous crime he committed. Toyah’s memory remains cherished in the hearts of those who knew her, with tributes and memorials serving as a reminder of the vibrant life she once lived.