Desperate Quest for Answers After Mother’s Tragic Death
Almost a year following the death of Rachael Dixon, her son Matt Mountain and former husband Richard Mountain continue to seek clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding her passing. Rachael died in April last year during a health retreat in Clunes, north-west of Melbourne, after consuming a tea infused with psilocybin, a hallucinogenic derived from magic mushrooms.
Rachael, a dedicated myotherapist from Melbourne, was known for her commitment to health and wellness, often participating in retreats led by self-proclaimed healer Deanne Mathews. Matt recalled that Rachael informed him about attending the retreat for a ceremonial experience involving the psilocybin tea. Unfortunately, shortly after consuming the drink, she became unwell and collapsed. An autopsy failed to pinpoint a definite cause of death, despite Rachael having recently undergone a comprehensive health evaluation that indicated no existing health issues.
Richard expressed concern about the lack of accountability following his partner’s death. Mathews was charged with trafficking a drug of dependence and received a fine, but no further legal actions have taken place regarding Rachael’s death. He expressed his frustration over the perception of psilocybin as a "natural" substance, emphasising that its administration should be performed by qualified professionals.
In July 2023, Australia became the first country to legally permit the therapeutic use of psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, although concerns remain about safety and regulation across unregulated retreats. Dr Nigel Strauss, one of the few psychiatrists authorised to prescribe psilocybin, warned about the potential risks involved when mushrooms are administered without precise knowledge of dosage or source.
Both Richard and Matt have been left grappling with their grief while confronting the complications arising from Rachael’s superannuation. There’s been confusion regarding Matt’s status as a dependent, hindering access to the funds he is entitled to. Richard reflected on Rachael’s assurance that Matt would inherit the family home if anything were to happen to her, highlighting the additional emotional burden of navigating financial matters during their mourning.
As they strive to honour Rachael’s memory, Richard and Matt are focused on home renovations in her memory. While they still have unanswered questions regarding her untimely death, their longing for closure persists, alongside the bittersweet memories of their time together. "I miss everything about her," Matt said, resonating the profound loss felt by the family.