Devoted father became deranged killer

The family of murder victim Luke Batty has released images of the loving father who became a deranged killer.

Luke's mother Rosie now has family from England to draw support from as she comes to terms with the death of her son.

It's hard to imagine that this clearly devoted dad would eventually murder the child he was gently cradling in his arms eleven years ago.

But the grim reality is that despite the apparent parental bliss, Greg Anderson would carry out sustained family violence and take the life of his only son Luke in shocking circumstances.

The arrival of Rosie Batty's father Geoff has given her even more strength to draw upon. Last month Geoff Batty was sharing a holiday with Luke and his mother in England. This week he woke to the news that his only grandson had been killed by his father.

Court documents have revealed police opposed Anderson's release in Frankston magistrate's court in June last year, fearing he would harm his son or ex-partner but the troubled man was granted bail regardless.

Rosie bears no malice towards the magistrate. The overwhelming community response to Luke's killing will be a factor in plans for his funeral.

Rosie hopes one of her inspirations, Bruce Springsteen, may make mention of the issue of family violence during his concerts this weekend.