A tragic incident recently unfolded at a health retreat in Clunes, near Ballarat, western Victoria, where Ringwood North mum Rachael Dixon, 53, lost her life after allegedly consuming a mushroom tonic. The host of the retreat, Deanne Mathews, who describes herself as a ‘healer, mentor, and teacher’, was seen going about her day in a seemingly carefree manner after the news of the tragic incident broke out.
Deanne Mathews, who operates from studios in Port Melbourne and Chapel Street in Windsor, was spotted by Daily Mail Australia enjoying herself at a cafe near her Port Melbourne premises, seemingly unaffected by the events that transpired at her retreat. She appeared relaxed and happy, dressed in a tan poncho and large hooped earrings, sipping on a hot drink.
The mushroom drink consumed by Rachael Dixon is said to induce a hypnotic-like trance, allowing individuals to delve into their past and mend old wounds. However, the exact cause of Dixon’s death remains inconclusive, as an autopsy report failed to provide a definitive answer.
Following the tragedy, Victoria Police initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Rachael Dixon’s death. The incident shed light on the operations of Deanne Mathews, who had previously hosted retreats costing between $800 to $1,200, aimed at helping individuals work through pain and trauma to transform their lives.
While the identity of the host, Deanne Mathews, had been shielded from the public eye, the owner of the Soul Barn, Michelle Mullins, faced intense media scrutiny in the aftermath of the incident. Mullins clarified that the private event where Dixon fell ill and subsequently passed away was not conducted by regular Soul Barn therapists or staff.
Rachael Dixon’s sister, Penny Muller-Dixon, expressed profound sadness over the loss of her sister, emphasizing the shortness of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones. The community affected by the tragedy urged for privacy and respect during this difficult time.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Rachael Dixon’s death, questions loom over the safety and efficacy of unconventional healing practices involving substances like magic mushrooms. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in such alternative therapies and the importance of thorough research and caution when participating in such activities.
