A mother of three found dead in her home had made a desperate plea to a stalker to leave her alone just months earlier.
Homicide detectives arrested a man after the body of Belinda Nicholls was found at a house on Mountain Highway near Dorset Road in Bayswater, in Melbourne’s outer east, about 11am on Monday.
The 39-year-old Bayswater man was arrested at a nearby bus stop less than an hour later and is believed to have been known to Ms Nicholls.
He had not been charged on Wednesday as detectives continued their enquiries and a frightening picture of Ms Nicholls’ life emerged.
In August 2024, the proud Indigenous mother hit social media to beg a stalker to back off.
‘F*** off Stalker, stop being a bulls*** TALKER YA PARROT,’ she wrote.
‘I’m not a pirate go find another shoulder to land s*** on.’
The message was accompanied by a video of Snow White running in fear underneath the caption: ‘When I see my crazy obsessed stalker satan hamster.’
Belinda Nicholls is feared to have been murdered by someone she knew
Belinda Nicholls expressed fear over a stalker
Traces of Ms Nicholls’ ordeal were evident across her social media, with a description under her name describing her as ‘damaged’ and having attended ‘University of Real Life Experience’.
Her long-time family friend Margaret Hamilton told The Age those close to her were devastated by her tragic death.
‘Belinda was a beautiful soul who adored her three boys,’ she said.
‘She was a loyal friend and stayed close to all of my family.
‘There were many ups and downs for Belinda, but she always hoped for a better life for her and her beautiful boys.’
Ms Nicholls had been passionate about her Indigenous heritage and had a large Aboriginal flag painted on the garage of her home, which was owned by Aboriginal Housing Victoria.
On Monday, police tape was erected around the property as forensic teams searched for evidence.
Ms Hamilton said her friend frequently wore clothing featuring the Aboriginal flag.
An Aboriginal flag had been painted on the garage door of Belinda Nicholls’ home
Belinda Nicholls and one of her three children
Neighbours described Ms Nicholls as a kind and caring person who was always there when needed, but would often keep to herself.
One neighbour told reporters police knocked on his door about 1pm on Monday asking if he had heard anything unusual.
He said he recalled hearing a loud noise the night before, followed by silence.
There had previously been heated arguments at the property over the years, including raised voices and doors banging, he said.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
