Rachael Dixon: Police release investigation update over alleged ‘mushroom’ death at Soul Barn wellness retreat
The mystery over the death of a woman who may have consumed a mushroom-based drink at a wellness retreat near Ballarat has deepened after police released an autopsy update.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said Moorabool crime investigation unit detectives were continuing to investigate the death after an autopsy was unable to determine the cause.
Rachael Dixon was at Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre in Clunes, a town in Victoria near Ballarat, on Sunday when she became ill at 12am.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The 53-year-old woman died at the scene.
“An autopsy has since been conducted and at this stage, the cause of death remains unknown,” the spokesperson said.
“Investigations remain ongoing and police continue to prepare a report for the coroner.”
Two others were hospitalised after consuming the drink but have since been discharged. They have now been discharged from hospital.
In a statement on Wednesday, a spokesperson said staff at the centre were feeling “deep shock and sorrow”.
“Soul Barn hires out workshop space to external businesses and facilitators. The event which took place on April 13th was a private event, and those facilitating the event do not work for or represent Soul Barn in any way,” the statement read.
“None of our regular therapists, staff or facilitators were present at any point during this event.
“We share the shock and devastation of everyone involved and our hearts are with those families affected.
“We have no further information to share and we ask you to please respect the privacy of our small community.”
Meanwhile, Ms Dixon was remembered as a myotherapist, a personal trainer and a “loving mum”.
Her son Matthew posted a heartbreaking tribute to his mother on social media on Sunday, writing that he wished he could give her “one last hug”.
“Rest in peace,” he wrote.
“To the most loving, most caring person I’ve ever known, I can’t thank you enough for everything you ever did for me and all the support you gave me; words can’t begin to describe how much I will miss you; I wish I could give you one last hug.
“Love you infinitely, Mum.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.
