Next steps revealed for former Gold Coast councillor Ryan Bayldon-Lumsden in Brisbane Supreme Court murder case

A former councillor charged with the murder of his stepfather, following an alleged confrontation at his home, faces another delay which will push his case out to 2026. Ryan Bayldon-Lumsden, 31, is accused of killing his stepfather, Robert Lumsden, at the family’s Arundel home on August 23, 2023. He has maintained a plea of not guilty since being committed to stand trial earlier this year. An indictment was due to be presented by the Crown at Brisbane Supreme Court on Wednesday, but prosecutors sought a delay – telling the court they required more time to gather “outstanding material,” namely phone records. As a result, the hearing was adjourned until January 26, 2026 for further review. Mr Bayldon-Lumsden’s bail has been enlarged in the meantime. Police allege an argument between Bayldon-Lumsden and his stepfather escalated in the kitchen of the home, with Mr Bayldon-Lumsden allegedly placing Mr Lumsden in a chokehold. Mr Lumsden died at the scene despite attempts at CPR. Defence barrister Craig Eberhardt KC previously told the court the relationship between the pair had been marked by longstanding conflict, claiming his client described years of domination, threats, and humiliation. He argued Mr Bayldon-Lumsden acted out of fear during a struggle that “escalated quickly,” denying any intent to cause fatal harm. Police, however, allege the former councillor’s actions were deliberate, pointing to online searches linked to self-defence and manslaughter in the days before the alleged killing. Mr Bayldon-Lumsden was first elected to the City of Gold Coast council in 2020 and was suspended from his role following his arrest. He later lost his seat in the March local government elections.