The father of murdered childcare worker Molly Ticehurst has been awarded more than $1.3 million in workers compensation following a debilitating spinal injury sustained while working for Peabody Energy. The court's decision on Tuesday provides a financial resolution for Tony Ticehurst, whose daughter was killed in April 2024.
Mr. Ticehurst suffered the injury in December 2021 while operating a coal dump truck at Wilpinjong Mine in central west New South Wales. He reported that the road conditions were poor, with potholes causing him to bounce in the truck's cabin. Despite his requests for road maintenance, he was reportedly told the repairs were pending. The ongoing pain from the incident ultimately forced the 67-year-old into early retirement, with medical evidence indicating persistent spinal, neck, and arm pain that has significantly diminished his quality of life.
The NSW District Court ruled in Mr. Ticehurst's favor, finding Peabody Energy's negligence contributed to his injuries. The award includes over $414,000 for past economic loss and more than $646,000 for future economic loss. Peabody Energy has been contacted for comment. The court noted that Mr. Ticehurst's quality of life has been significantly impacted, affecting most aspects of his daily life, including domestic tasks he now struggles to complete.
This workplace case resolution occurs as the family awaits a sentencing date for Daniel Billings, Molly Ticehurst's ex-boyfriend, who is accused of her murder. Mr. Billings allegedly stabbed Ms. Ticehurst 15 times in Forbes, NSW. He had been released on bail in April 2024, shortly before the alleged murder, after facing charges including domestic violence offenses and rape.
The sentencing for Mr. Billings, initially scheduled for June, was postponed to September. The delay is to allow for the presentation of evidence from a psychiatrist who has indicated Mr. Billings planned to kill himself after Ms. Ticehurst's murder. The family has previously expressed the anxiety, sadness, and heartache caused by the lengthy legal proceedings.
