URGENT UPDATE: Former army major Graeme Davidson is making headlines as he seeks $250,000 bail after being charged with the murder of his wife, Jacqueline Davidson, during a kayaking trip at Lake Samsonvale, north of Brisbane. The bail application was discussed in the Queensland Supreme Court over three days, concluding on Wednesday, with a decision expected on Friday.
This case took a shocking turn as court proceedings revealed that Davidson allegedly joked about killing his wife three years prior to her death. During the kayak outing in November 2020, Jacqueline drowned, prompting an investigation that led to Davidson’s murder charge in May 2023. Crown prosecutor Caroline Marco detailed disturbing comments made by Davidson, stating he had told another individual that he would kill Jacqueline if she sought a divorce and laid claim to his military pension.
In response, defense barrister Craig Eberhardt argued that Davidson’s comments were taken out of context and insisted there was no history of domestic violence. Davidson’s legal team also mentioned there were no forensic evidence or witness statements to suggest violence at the lake. Eberhardt claimed his client saw his wife fall into the water but was unable to reach her due to the dark conditions.
The emotional stakes are high as Jacqueline’s family and friends grapple with the loss. The court heard that Davidson’s two daughters are backing his bail request, offering $50,000 each, alongside a contribution of $150,000 from his de facto son-in-law. However, Marco opposed the bail, labeling Davidson a flight risk since he now resides in Thailand and has severed strong ties to Australia.
Authorities are also investigating allegations that Davidson committed fraud by making life insurance claims worth over $1 million following his wife’s death. Eberhardt defended the insurance claims, stating they were part of standard procedure following a tragic incident. Contrastingly, Marco maintained that Davidson’s policies were suspicious, particularly as Jacqueline was fully covered for all circumstances, while Davidson only had accidental death coverage.
Justice Tom Sullivan is expected to deliver a ruling on Davidson’s bail application on Friday, as the public anxiously awaits further developments in this tragic case.
For immediate support, individuals can contact 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732, Lifeline at 13 11 14, or the Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491.
