In this episode, Sally speaks with Janette Hayden, whose 46-year-old son Scott vanished on 29 May 2025 near Taree, NSW. Scott’s behaviour had been shifting in the weeks before he disappeared—talking about God, training hard, eating clean, and struggling with his mental health. His family did what families do: they worried, they watched, and when things escalated, they went to police. More than once.

Days later, Scott’s bright gold car was found abandoned with his wallet, keys, shoes, food and belongings still inside — but no sign of Scott. It has now been more than 199 days.

Janette bravely walks us through the timeline: the changes in Scott’s behaviour, the alarming events of that night, the unanswered questions, the footprints found, the community efforts, and a police response that left the family feeling dismissed at the most critical moment.

This is the story of a much-loved son, brother and uncle — a man who matters deeply to everyone who knows him.

If you have information that may help find Scott Hayden, please contact Crime Stoppers or reach out privately via the Facebook page Can You Help Find Scott Hayden?

 

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