Larrimah, often described as a speck on the map, sits on the Stuart Highway, surrounded by the harsh and beautiful outback. The town's few residents were known for their eccentricities and close-knit, yet sometimes contentious, relationships. Life in Larrimah revolved around the local pub, the Pink Panther, which served as the social hub.
The story centers around Paddy Moriarty, a lively and well-known local character. On December 16, 2017, Paddy, along with his faithful dog, Kellie, vanished without a trace. The disappearance of this beloved figure sent shockwaves through the tiny community and puzzled authorities. Paddy was last seen leaving the Pink Panther after a typical day of banter and beer.
With so few residents, everyone in Larrimah quickly fell under suspicion. Theories abounded, ranging from foul play to the possibility that Paddy simply wandered off into the bush. The investigation revealed a web of feuds, secrets, and bizarre behaviours among the townsfolk, painting a portrait of a community with deeper undercurrents than its sleepy exterior suggested.
Among those scrutinized were Fran Hodgetts, a pie shop owner who had a long-standing feud with Paddy, and Barry Sharpe, the owner of the Pink Panther and one of the last people to see Paddy alive. Each resident's quirks and grudges were laid bare as the investigation dug into the town's social dynamics. The tight-knit nature of Larrimah, combined with its isolation, meant that everyone knew everyone else's business, making the mystery even more perplexing.
The disappearance caught the attention of the media and the public, turning Larrimah into an unlikely focal point. The story's strange details and the colorful personalities involved made it a compelling saga, sparking numerous theories and discussions. "Last Stop Larrimah" delved deep into the mystery, exploring not just the facts of the case but the human stories behind it.
Despite extensive searches and investigations, Paddy Moriarty and his dog remain missing to this day. The case remains unsolved, and Larrimah continues to be haunted by the unanswered questions. The town's population has dwindled even further, and the sense of unease lingers.
"Last Stop Larrimah" has ensured that the story of Paddy Moriarty and his disappearance remains in the public consciousness. It serves as a reminder of how even the smallest communities can harbor big mysteries and how the outback's vastness can swallow secrets whole. The podcast, the Netflix series and the media coverage have immortalised Larrimah's tale, making it a poignant chapter in the annals of Australian true crime.
Address: 8 Mahony Street,
Larrimah, NT 0852
75 km south of Mataranka
95 km north of Daly Waters
Phone: (08) 8975 9931