A personal fitness trainer’s life has been tragically cut short due to an alleged case of mushroom poisoning. This shocking incident took place at a renowned wellness retreat in Victoria, Australia.
Rachael Dixon, a 53-year-old mother and professional fitness trainer, is believed to have consumed a juice made with toxic mushrooms at the Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre in Clunes, near Ballarat. This unfortunate incident occurred on a Saturday night, and by early Sunday morning, Rachael was pronounced dead at the retreat.
The Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre is known for offering alternative and holistic health services. Unfortunately, the center has been silent on this incident despite multiple requests for comment. Their silence on social media platforms has raised questions and concerns among their followers and patrons.
Matthew Dixon, Rachael’s son, shared a touching tribute to his mother on social media. His heartfelt message highlighted his mother’s caring nature and the pain of losing her so suddenly.
Alongside Rachael, two other individuals are believed to have consumed the poisonous mushroom juice. These individuals were immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment by paramedics who arrived at the wellness center around midnight.
Following the tragic incident, the center abruptly canceled a sound healing workshop scheduled for the same afternoon. The announcement was made on their Facebook page, assuring customers that they would receive a refund.
This tragic incident comes in the wake of a warning issued by Victorian authorities earlier in the month. The authorities had cautioned residents about the growth of poisonous mushrooms across the state.
In light of this tragic event, the police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. This plea is part of their ongoing investigation into the unfortunate death of Rachael Dixon.
Despite the tragic incident, the Soul Barn continues to advertise services like sound healing, ceremonies, venue hire, and homestays. Over the weekend, they advertised a ‘Slow Beauty Medicine’ event, promising “ritual skincare and reiki to soothe body and spirit”.
This incident serves as a stark warning for anyone considering foraging for wild mushrooms. As the acting Chief Health Officer of Victoria, Evelyn Wong, cautioned, “Unless you are an expert, do not pick and eat wild mushrooms in Victoria. There is no home test available to distinguish safe and edible mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms.”
This incident has further shaken the town of Clunes, which was already reeling from the tragic murder of former resident Hannah McGuire by her ex-partner near Ballarat.
For anyone with information about the incident or other criminal activities, Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppervic.com.au.
