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Accused faces court

Peter Bannan

BRIAN Barnes, 67, faced Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on Thursday for a filing hearing after being charged with murdering Quambatook woman Merril Kelly.

Mr Barnes was remanded in custody to reappear in court in April for a committal mention.

His lawyer, Paul Kidd, told the court it was Mr Barnes’ first time in custody, and that he required blood-pressure medication.

Mr Kidd said his client also didn’t understand the allegations made against him.

The court heard Mr Barnes was deemed unfit for an interview by police on Wednesday.

“I think he is entitled to know how it is the police say he is the offender,” Mr Kidd told the court.

“And at the moment, that information is not available.”

The court was yet to hear an application by police to use forensic samples taken from Mr Barnes.

Mr Barnes’ lawyer told the court police had not provided enough evidence to justify the use of such samples. The court was to make a decision this week.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

See also: Town leader mourned

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