Woman Dies After Ingesting Mushroom Drink at Melbourne Retreat, Police Investigate

Rachael Dixon, a 53-year-old woman from Ringwood North, Melbourne, died at the Soul Barn retreat in Clunes, Victoria, after allegedly ingesting a hallucinogenic mushroom drink. The autopsy results have been inconclusive, and the police investigation into the cause of her death is ongoing.

According to police, two other people who consumed the same drink were hospitalized but have since been discharged. The Soul Barn retreat has stated that the event where the incident occurred was a private event, and none of their regular staff or facilitators were present.

The police are investigating whether the drink contained toxic mushrooms, potentially mistaken for psychedelic 'magic mushrooms'. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers.

Rachael Dixon was remembered as a myotherapist, a personal trainer, and a loving mother. Her son Matthew posted a heartbreaking tribute to her on social media, expressing his grief and love for her. "Mum, I love you so much and I just want one last hug," he wrote.

Why this matters: The tragic incident highlights the risks associated with consuming unregulated substances, even in seemingly safe settings like wellness retreats. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigations and public awareness to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The death of Ms. Dixon comes amid a series of tragic events in the Ballarat area, including the deaths of three local women and a mining accident. Less than a year ago, three people died and another was hospitalized for months after allegedly consuming poisonous mushrooms in eastern Victoria. As the police continue their investigation and prepare a report for the coroner, the community mourns the loss of Rachael Dixon and awaits answers about the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.

Key Takeaways

• Rachael Dixon, 53, died after ingesting hallucinogenic mushroom drink at wellness retreat.
• Autopsy inconclusive, police investigating cause of death; two others hospitalized.
• Retreat claims event was private, no regular staff present; police suspect toxic mushrooms.
• Rachael Dixon remembered as myotherapist, personal trainer, and loving mother.
• Incident highlights risks of unregulated substances, even in wellness settings; part of recent tragedies.