September 19th, 2024Lachlan Young to face trial, pleads not guilty to murder of Clunes woman

Ballarat man Lachlan Young is to face a Supreme Court trial for the alleged murder of Clunes woman Hannah McGuire, after pleading not guilty and electing to have his case fast-tracked.

Young, 21, appeared via video link at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court earlier today (Thursday September 19) and formally pleaded not guilty to the murder of the 23-year-old whose body was found in a burnt-out car in Scarsdale near Ballarat, on April 5.

An estimated 50 supporters of the Clunes woman attended today’s hearing, wearing shirts emblazoned with her image and the words “she matters”.

Magistrate Michelle Mykytowycz told the court Young had chosen to fast-track his case to the Supreme Court, meaning he will not face a committal hearing in the lower court.

“Mr Young has elected to stand trial,” Magistrate Mykytowycz said.

“The effect of this is that his matter will now be fast-tracked to the Supreme Court.

Young will now be required to face the Supreme Court for a directions hearing on October 3.