New twist in ‘mushroom drink’ death
An autopsy has failed to reveal the cause of death for a personal trainer who died at a retreat after consuming a drink her family believes contained mushrooms.
Rachael Dixon, 53, went into cardiac arrest and died about midnight last Sunday after consuming a drink at Soul Barn in Clunes, near Ballarat in regional Victoria.
“An autopsy has since been conducted and at this stage the cause of death remains unknown,” police said in a statement on Friday.
Moorabool Crime Investigation Unit detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of Ms Dixon’s death.
Police continue to prepare a report for the coroner.
Two other people were taken to hospital but were later discharged.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
While Ms Dixon’s son and ex-husband believe the drink contained mushrooms, police have not confirmed that.
Ms Dixon’s son Matthew posted a heartbreaking tribute to his mother on social media on Sunday, writing that he wished he could give her “one last hug”.
“To the most loving, most caring person I’ve ever known, can’t thank you enough for everything you ever did for me and all the support you gave me,” he said.
“Words can’t begin to describe how much I will miss you, wish I could give you one last hug.”
Soul Barn, which is described as a “creative wellbeing centre” specialising in holistic and alternative practices, said in a statement this week that it was shocked and devastated by Ms Dixon’s death.
The centre said the event was not run by them or facilitated by any of their staff.
“Soul Barn hires out workshop space to external businesses and facilitators,” the centre said.
“The event which took place on April 13 was a private event, and those facilitating the event do not work for or represent Soul Barn in any way.
“None of our regular therapists, staff or facilitators were present at any point during this event.
“We share the shock and devastation of everyone involved, and our hearts are with those families affected.”
