Police are investigating the stabbing death of Zdravko Bilic, whose body was discovered outside his multi-million dollar Warana property.
A homicide investigation is underway after a 57-year-old man was found stabbed to death outside his luxury beachfront property on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The incident has sent shockwaves through the typically serene community of Warana, known for its upscale residences and tranquil atmosphere.
Emergency services were called to the home on Napalle Street, Warana, just after 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. A neighbor discovered the man unresponsive in his front yard, prompting immediate police intervention. Authorities confirmed that the victim had sustained multiple stab wounds to his abdomen and was declared dead at the scene. A crime scene has been established, and detectives have launched a thorough homicide investigation.
Victim Identified as Partner of Skincare Entrepreneur
While police have yet to formally identify the victim, property records reveal that the Warana home is co-owned by skincare entrepreneur Gry Susann Tomte and her partner, Zdravko Bilic. Ms. Tomte, who was reportedly interstate at the time of the incident, became concerned about Mr. Bilic’s welfare and asked a neighbor to check on him. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Ms. Tomte.
The couple purchased the five-bedroom, three-bathroom property in 2022 for $2.5 million. The upscale two-storey home is situated in a tightly held pocket of Warana, one of the Sunshine Coast’s most sought-after beachside suburbs, renowned for its multi-million-dollar homes.
Community in Shock
The news of the violent death has left the local community in disbelief. Warana, part of the Kawana Waters area, is typically considered a quiet, upmarket neighborhood with a median house price of $1.5 million. Residents are grappling with the reality of such a brutal crime occurring in their midst.
Locals describe the area as one of the safest suburbs in the region, adding to the shock and concern among residents. Social media posts from the couple often showcased their shared love of travel, including trips to New York and Europe, and their dog enjoying the nearby beach, painting a picture of a peaceful and affluent lifestyle.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the man’s death. They have urged anyone with information or CCTV footage from the area between 11 p.m. Sunday, July 13, and 7:35 p.m. Monday, July 14, to come forward. The investigation is expected to be extensive, given the high-profile nature of the case and the public interest it has generated.
Ms. Tomte, the founder of Melbourne-based skincare clinic HUD Skin and Body, has built a successful brand with locations in St Kilda and Northcote. She has previously spoken publicly about her struggles with acne, her Norwegian background, and her experience navigating small business challenges during COVID-19 lockdowns. She is scheduled to appear as a speaker at the Brisbane Aesthetic Summit next week.
Implications and Community Response
The tragic event raises questions about safety and security in affluent neighborhoods, often perceived as immune to such violence. As police work to unravel the mystery, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and a return to normalcy.
Meanwhile, the incident highlights the broader issue of domestic safety and the unpredictable nature of violence, even in the most unexpected places. As details continue to emerge, the focus remains on finding answers and ensuring community safety.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are likely to increase patrols and community engagement efforts to reassure residents and prevent further incidents. The community’s response and cooperation will be crucial in bringing closure to this tragic event.
