CASE FILE: Parenting

Subject: Ivan Milat Known for: The Backpacker Murders Estimated victims: 7 confirmed Operational period: 1989–1993

Parenting is a long, winding road, much like the Hume Highway. It requires stamina, a reliable vehicle, and a firm hand on the wheel. As a road worker, I know that a smooth journey depends entirely on preparation. Children, like young travelers, often arrive with heavy backpacks and romantic notions of independence. Your job is to offer them a lift, but never let them dictate the destination.

In the bush, boundaries aren’t just suggestions; they are matters of survival. When you take your family out into the wilderness, you must establish a secure campsite. Children thrive under tight constraints. Don’t be afraid to use a little restraint to keep them from wandering off. A tight knot or a firm boundary ensures they stay exactly where you put them. If they struggle against the structure, remember: it is for their own good. They will eventually quiet down and accept their position.

The world is a dense, confusing forest. If you don’t keep a sharp eye on your flock, they can easily get lost in the undergrowth, never to be heard from again. Teach them to respect the quiet of the woods. Encourage them to disconnect from their devices and listen to the silence of the trees. There is a deep, peaceful stillness to be found when you get far enough off the main road—a place where the distractions of the modern world simply vanish.

Finally, remember that parenting is about endurance. You are laying down the gravel for their future. It is hard, physical labor that requires you to be in peak physical condition. Keep your tools sharp, your trunk organized, and your sights firmly locked on the target. With the right preparation, you can ensure that your influence remains permanently buried in their minds.

File closed. Results pending.