Four years hidden away
FOUR years in hiding without a hug from their dad, a lesson from a schoolteacher or a hint of normality, that’s the reality for Isabelle and Bronte Watter according to their father.
Michael Watter has not seen his twin daughters since he dropped them off at Hermit Park Primary School four years ago today. It is believed the then seven- year- old girls were taken by their mother Cassie Watter ( Doubleday), their non- custodial parent.
Mr Watter believes his exwife has since used manipulative tactics to hide the girls in an unknown location.
“It’s four years without these kids being at school or being in a normal home,” Mr Watter said.
“They could be anywhere, we have really no leads at all.
“It’s just time for Cassie to do the right thing by the girls; she’s obviously thought this is the right thing for her but this can’t go on forever.”
Townsville Child Protection Investigation Unit detective Senior Sergeant Dave Miles said the investigation into the missing Watter twins remained ongoing. Sen- Sgt Miles said Townsville detectives were working in partnership with the Australian Federal Police in an effort to track down the girls.
“The reality is no matter how long Cassie waits she will have to confront the family law court in relation to her actions,” Sen- Sgt Miles said.
“The longer she continues to remain at large the situation does not improve and it’s only going to serve to make things more difficult for her and the children into the future.”
It has long been believed that multiple people are assisting Mr Watter’s former wife in hiding Bronte and Isabella.
These people are likely to think they are doing the right thing by the children, but police are calling on them to come forward.
“We have no doubt at all that there are individuals out there assisting Cassie in remaining at large with the children in contravention of the family law court order,” Sen- Sgt Miles said.
“While whoever is support- ing Cassie believes that they are acting in the best interests of all parties, they fail to appreciate the long- term effects this will have on the girls and their ability to lead normal lives in the future.
“We continue to respond to all information regarding possible sightings and their location.”
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Cassie, Bronte or Isabella Watter is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police Link on 131 444.