Kathleen Folbigg, whose convictions for the deaths of her four children were overturned, has married her childhood friend Bob Muir in a ceremony held at Newcastle’s historic Fort Scratchley Function Centre. The wedding, which took place on Saturday, marks a significant new chapter for Folbigg, who was released from prison in June 2023 after spending two decades incarcerated.
A New Beginning After Legal Battles
Folbigg’s release followed a landmark legal process that saw her convictions quashed. Initially convicted in 2003 for the murders of her children Patrick, Sarah, and Laura, and the manslaughter of her son Caleb, Folbigg has consistently maintained her innocence. The turning point came with a Special Commission of Inquiry initiated in 2018, where new scientific and medical evidence cast significant doubt on the original verdicts. Experts presented findings suggesting a rare genetic condition could have been a reasonably possible cause for the deaths of Sarah and Laura, while myocarditis was also considered a potential factor in Laura’s death. Patrick’s death was linked to a possible neurogenetic disorder, and new evidence also undermined the reasoning used for Caleb’s manslaughter conviction.
Following the inquiry’s findings, Folbigg was pardoned in June 2023 and her convictions were formally quashed in December of the same year. She was subsequently awarded a $2 million compensation payment from the New South Wales government.
The Wedding Ceremony
On Saturday, Folbigg, who reportedly changed her name to Cathy Lisa Brandon, exchanged vows with Bob Muir at the scenic Fort Scratchley Function Centre, located on the headland overlooking Newcastle Harbour. The venue, a historic landmark built in 1882, provided a picturesque backdrop for the celebration.
The bride, Folbigg, wore a striking strapless, beaded gown with a long skirt and a sweetheart neckline. She was accompanied by her bridesmaids, who wore navy blue dresses in various styles and carried bouquets of white roses. Among the wedding party was Folbigg’s long-time solicitor, Rhanee Rego, who played a crucial role in her legal fight for exoneration.
Bob Muir, dressed in a black suit adorned with an iris on the lapel and aviator-style sunglasses, also appeared joyful. Folbigg and Muir have known each other since childhood, a connection that has deepened over time.
Reflections on the Past and Hopes for the Future
In the lead-up to the wedding, Muir spoke about his relationship with Folbigg, telling news.com.au in December 2025 that they “just gel with” each other. He described their connection as comfortable and noted their striking similarities in tastes and perspectives. “We have known each other since we were 11,” Muir stated, emphasizing the long-standing nature of their friendship.
Muir also acknowledged the challenges Folbigg has faced, commenting on the “continual cycle of negativity” and expressing his belief that she deserves happiness. He highlighted their shared comfort and connection, suggesting a strong foundation for their marriage.
Folbigg herself had previously expressed a desire for companionship and love during her time in prison. In letters released during the inquiry, she wrote about her hope to find a trusted companion for her remaining years and to “experience everything and love life.” She humorously noted her high standards for a potential partner, while also admitting to potential shyness.
Adapting to life outside prison has presented Folbigg with considerable challenges. She has spoken about the difficulties in finding rental accommodation and securing employment, describing her situation as a struggle despite support from friends. The $2 million compensation payout was described by Folbigg as “a slap in the face,” indicating her view that it did not fully address the injustices she endured.
A New Chapter Unfolds
The wedding to Bob Muir signifies a pivotal moment for Kathleen Folbigg, offering a chance to build a future away from the shadow of her past convictions. Her journey from a lengthy prison sentence to exoneration and now marriage underscores a profound personal transformation and a step towards reclaiming her life.
The event at Fort Scratchley, a venue steeped in history, provided a fitting setting for Folbigg to embark on this new phase, surrounded by friends and loved ones, including her new husband, who has been a part of her life since childhood.
