# The Vanishing of James "Crackers" Hunter

In the vast landscapes of rural New South Wales, a man known for his charismatic presence and unpredictable nature simply disappeared. James "Crackers" Hunter was last seen at a Dubbo pharmacy on February 28, 2020 - over 2,000 days ago. His blue Toyota Hilux was found abandoned on a rural property two years later, but James himself has vanished without a trace. For his former partner Marie Farrell, the years since have been consumed by an unrelenting search for answers.

The podcast takes us deep into the complex reality of ambiguous loss - the torment of not knowing whether someone is alive or dead. Marie shares intimate details about James's transient lifestyle, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and the deep bond they maintained even after their relationship ended. As she navigates the frustrating landscape of police investigations, media misrepresentations, and personal grief, Marie reveals the devastating impact of living in limbo.

## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:
- 05:30 - James's last known whereabouts and the timeline of his disappearance
- 14:20 - The discovery of James's vehicle and questions surrounding its return to the property
- 22:45 - Marie's organization of high-tech drone searches covering 1,700 hectares
- 35:10 - The revelation that police considered the case a potential homicide by April 2022
- 43:20 - James's intelligent, adaptable nature and his ability to connect with people across social boundaries
- 51:30 - The impact of ambiguous loss on Marie's mental health and family relationships

If you have any information about James Hunter's disappearance, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or the Dubbo Police Station. Even the smallest detail could be the missing piece that brings closure to those who love him. As Marie reminds us, "He doesn't deserve to be an unknown person... he matters because he's important."

If you know someone who is dealing with a missing person, and would like to share your story, contact Sally at info@themissingmatter.com

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.