Introduction
Boronia advertising manager Nanette Mae Ellis, aged 41, was murdered inside her Manuka Drive home on the 10th of February in 1984. Despite extensive investigations and several public appeals, the case remains unsolved in 2025.
Nanette’s Life in Boronia
Nanette lived at 39 Manuka Drive and was a divorced mother of two teenage boys. She worked as an advertising manager for The Free Press in Belgrave, a newspaper linked to Leader Associated Newspapers in Blackburn. Moreover, she maintained a routine lifestyle and was respected by her co-workers and the local community.
A Disturbing Series of Incidents
Despite the routine lifestyle, the days before her murder were marked by a frightening escalation of targeted attacks.
Rocks Thrown at Her Car
On the 31st of January, Nanette’s car broke down outside the Burvale Hotel after a rock pierced her radiator. The next day a rock smashed her windscreen on Monbulk Road. Another rock struck her roof on the 2nd of February. Then on the 3rd of February, a rock smashed her windscreen again and landed on the back seat.
Vandalism at Her Manuka Drive Home
On the 4th of February, someone poured paint over Nanette’s car. Subsequently, on the 6th of February, her car was vandalised again. The aerial and number plate were ripped off, the wipers bent back and her tyres slashed. One tyre was still hissing when she inspected the damage. Consequently, Nanette placed an air rifle, golf club and baton near the front door for protection. Additionally, Police provided escorts and surveillance. Meanwhile, friends also stayed overnight to help her feel safe.
The Day Nanette Was Killed
Nanette arrived home from work on Friday the 10th of February at about 5:15pm. A passerby saw her yellow 1982 Toyota Corolla enter the driveway. Inside the home, an unknown offender attacked and stabbed her several times. Nanette’s 16-year-old son Greg found her body near the rear of the house shortly after 6pm.
Investigations and Renewed Appeals
The Homicide Squad led the initial investigation and pursued hundreds of leads. Detective Senior Sergeant Stuart Bailey, Detective Inspector Dean Thomas, and later Detective Kyle Simpson each conducted major reviews. Moreover, on the 30th anniversary, police announced a $500,000 reward, which remains active. However, fresh appeals were issued on the 40th anniversary in 2024, with the Department of Public Prosecutions offering possible indemnity for anyone assisting the investigation. Furthermore, as of 2024, Detective Etherington leads the case. Police continue to highlight advancements in forensic technology and encourage new information from the public.
Media Coverage and Public Interest
The case has been regularly featured in Victorian media. Consequently, coverage increases during major anniversaries, as journalists and police seek renewed public assistance. Notably. the unsolved murder continues to draw community interest due to its disturbing lead-up and long-running investigative efforts.
