True crime tourists: Erin Patterson trial puts Morwell in Dark Tourism spotlight

Who would have imagined that a quiet country town in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley would become the centre of a true crime story that has captured the world’s attention? Yet here we are.

For the last few months, the small regional town of Morwell, best known for its power stations and proud community, has unexpectedly found itself hosting journalists, curious onlookers and true crime followers. The reason is the now-concluded, high-profile murder trial of Erin Patterson, who was found guilty this week of serving up Beef Wellingtons laced with deadly death cap mushrooms. The lunch killed three family members and left another fighting for life in nearby Leongatha in July 2023.

A strange boost for local business

Morwell’s population sits at around 14,000. Usually, its cafés and shops rely on steady local trade, but since the trial began, local businesses have noticed an unusual surge in visitors. One local told 7NEWS there has been a noticeable boom in foot traffic, with a motel operator adding that there has been “a bit of a buzz” around town as rooms fill with media crews and true crime followers eager to stay close to the action. Local café owners say they have been serving more coffees than usual to out-of-towners curious to see the courthouse for themselves.

It is a textbook example of dark tourism. This describes travel to places connected to death, crime or tragedy. It is not new, but the trend has gained real momentum in recent years, fuelled by the popularity of true crime podcasts and streaming docuseries.

True crime tourism is a global fascination

From Jack the Ripper walking tours in London to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Poland, there is no shortage of visitors drawn to sites with unsettling histories. Even the South Australian town of Snowtown still grapples with its grim reputation decades later.

Now, Morwell is facing this same uncomfortable spotlight. For some local businesses, the extra visitors have brought a welcome boost. For many residents though, there is unease about the town’s name being tied to a tragedy for years to come.

From virtual tours to gothic gatherings

As our industry evolves, so does this type of travel. Some destinations are embracing virtual dark tourism, offering online experiences so people can explore “dark” sites without causing damage to fragile locations.

Others have found a way to turn fascination into celebration. Gothic festivals like the Whitby Goth Weekend in the UK or Dublin’s Bram Stoker Festival attract thousands every year. They show how communities can respectfully acknowledge the darker side of history while supporting local culture and business.

When tragedy and tourism collide

In Morwell, the reactions have been mixed. Some locals welcome the economic boost while others worry about the long-term impact on their community’s image.

For accommodation providers, it is a timely reminder that tourism is never just about bookings or room nights. At its heart, every story has real people and real communities. Balancing opportunity with respect and care is what truly matters.

With the Erin Patterson trial now concluded and a guilty verdict delivered, Morwell’s brush with dark tourism is proof that the stories that shape a place are not always the ones you would choose. How we respond, with honesty, sensitivity and empathy, is what really counts.

Read more about the rise of Dark Tourism HERE