An escalation in the reward for information resulting in uncovering the whereabouts of Burnie mother Helen Munnings provokes mixed emotions.
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It's pleasing to know Tasmania Police are still working hard on the case despite Ms Munnings last being seen on July 23, 2008.
On the other hand, it's disturbing to think that such a large amount of money - $250,000 - is needed to try and gain information from the public.
"This reward may well serve as the driving factor to motivate them to speak with police," Western District Commander Debbie Williams said.
"Investigators have long held the view that there are people in the community who have knowledge of Helen's disappearance who, for whatever reason, have not either been able to come forward or have been unwilling."
Exactly, someone knows something about whether or not Ms Munnings is alive or, more likely, met with foul play while walking in her home city according to Coroner Robert Pearce's report in 2012.
Eleven years have passed and nothing concrete has been uncovered.
Tasmania has several high-profile cases left unsolved, namely the murders of Shane Barker and Victoria Cafasso, and the disappearance of Nancy Grunwaldt.
It's hard to imagine the grief relatives and friends go through when someone they love is killed in cold blood or disappear without a trace. That must only be compounded when the culprit is not brought to justice.
Questions such as "why?" go unanswered.
Many go to their grave without knowing what happened to their daughter, son, mother, father, grandparent, brother, sister or friend.
It's implausible to think that nobody saw something on the day of Ms Munnings' disappearance or has heard what happened to her in the aftermath that could lead police to an arrest.
So if you know something about any misjustice, do the right thing and call Tasmania Police on 131 444, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
