A 23-year-old man died from suspected dog attacks at a sprawling 40-hectare property in Sydney's southwest known as 'Saturn's Rings.' Emergency services were called to the estate on Badgully Road in Eschol Park shortly before midday on Wednesday, discovering the man's body in a paddock. He sustained significant injuries, and initial police inquiries suggest he may have been attacked by animals.
The victim is not believed to have been a resident or worker at the property. Reports indicate that up to eight dogs were present on the grounds, including a German Shepherd. These animals were allegedly unregistered and not microchipped.
A witness reported that another person was bitten earlier on Friday while council inspectors were on site finalizing plans to capture the dogs. Later that day, council inspectors, armed with tranquilizer darts, removed the animals from the property. Three utility vehicles carrying dogs in cages were subsequently seen leaving the gated estate.
"Council is supporting police inquiries and will continue to assist as required, in accordance with its legislative responsibilities, including determining the registration and ownership status of the dogs," a spokesperson for Campbelltown Council stated.
A Mansion of Unique Design
The property, also known as 'Mount Universe,' is distinct for its unconventional architecture. It was designed and built by Polish immigrant Stefan Dzwonnik to serve as both his family's residence and the headquarters for his spiritual group, the 'Universal Power World Society.' According to Campbelltown Library archives, Dzwonnik envisioned the property as a 'mecca for a worldwide movement directed toward a better life on Earth.'
The mansion's design, characterized by three concentric units, inspired the nickname 'Saturn's Rings,' reflecting the rings of the planet Saturn. The largest unit on the top level was intended for family living quarters, while the two lower levels were designated for the society. The ambitious construction project remained incomplete at the time of Dzwonnik's death in 2018. The property remains in the Dzwonnik family.
