Chris Dawson sentencing LIVE updates: Lynette Dawson’s ex-husband set to be jailed over murder

Lynette’s brother Greg Simms, his wife Merilyn Simms and their daughter Renee Simms have appeared outside court after Chris Dawson was sentenced to a maximum of 24 years behind bars for Lynette’s murder.

Greg Simms said his sister should be known by her maiden name.

“Chris Dawson discarded her; the Dawsons disregarded her; from today on, we would like her to be known and remembered as Lynette Joy Simms,” he said.

Greg Simms (right), the brother of Lynette Dawson, with his wife Merilyn Simms (centre) and daughter Renee Simms (left) arrive at the Supreme Court on Friday.Credit:Kate Geraghty

“No sentence is long enough for taking someone’s life. We respect and thank Judge Harrison for his sentence and hope Chris Dawson lives a long life in order to serve that sentence.”

Asked whether he believed Dawson would ever reveal the location of Lynette’s body, he said: “I don’t think he’ll ever give it up. His non-parole-period is 18 years.

“He’ll be, what, 92, if he lives that long? I don’t think he’ll give up where she is.”

Greg Simms, brother of Lynette Dawson, and his wife, Merilyn, address the media after Chris Dawson was sentenced on Friday.Credit:Kate Geraghty

Greg and his wife are wearing pink ribbons in honour of Lynette, and Renee has a bright pink dress.

In further comments outside court, Greg Simms said:

Today is in recognition of the hard work so many people have done to get the resolution we needed.

We want to pay special tribute to the family and friends who worked in an unofficial capacity over the last almost 41 years.

The system was against us, but we got there in the end. Once again, a huge but inadequate thank you to all the contributing police, Judge Harrison, the incredible barristers and solicitors from the DPP, the media for their support.

My hope is that the media and police will work collaboratively in future cases. We really didn’t believe this day would ever come.

What we need now is to find Lyn and put her to rest. It’s our time to begin living our lives without having this hanging over our heads. Chris Dawson has had 40 years of freedom. Now, it’s our turn. Thank you.