In this episode of Sleepers, survivor Paul Cornelius speaks publicly for the first time about his abuse at the hands of disgraced magistrate Peter Liddy. His story shines a light on the hidden networks of power that thrived in South Australia through the 1970s and ’80s, linking surf clubs, politics, and the dark underbelly of Adelaide’s so-called establishment.

Cornelius’s testimony doesn’t just revisit Liddy’s crimes; it connects to Stan Hart’s network, our prime suspect in the abduction and murder of Joanne Ratcliffe and Kirste Gordon. Paul's experience draws new lines to convicted offender Tony Munro. His account also reopens the trail to Steve Williams, Gypsy Jokers president, who vanished after revealing too much.

Snakes in the Grass is a story of survival and exposure, a reminder that the dangers were never just on the streets, but in the institutions meant to protect us.

⚠️ Content warning: This episode discusses child sexual abuse and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

• Lifeline Australia – Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention: 13 11 14 (24/7)
• Kids Helpline – For young people aged 5–25: 1800 55 1800 (24/7)
• Blue Knot Foundation – Counselling for adult survivors of childhood trauma: 1300 657 380
• MensLine Australia – Counselling for men: 1300 78 99 78
• 1800RESPECT – National Sexual Assault, Domestic & Family Violence Counselling Service: 1800 737 732 (24/7)

United States

• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-4673 (24/7)
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 (24/7)

United Kingdom

• NSPCC (for children & young people): 0808 800 5000
• Samaritans UK: 116 123 (24/7)
• NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood): 0808 801 0331

Canada

• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (24/7)
• Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7)

New Zealand

• Safe to Talk (Sexual harm helpline): 0800 044 334 or text 4334 (24/7)
• Lifeline New Zealand: 0800 543 354

Europe (general)

• 116 123 – European standard suicide helpline (works in many EU countries)
• 116 111 – Child Helpline Europe

Global

• Child Helpline International: childhelplineinternational.org/child-helplines
• International Suicide Hotlines Directory: findahelpline.com

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