Police hunt for Tiahleigh's backpack as concerns over a former Thornburn foster child are raised
Queensland detectives expect to remain at the property of the man charged with Tiahleigh Palmer's murder for a number of days after naming it as their primary crime scene.
An excavator is being used to dig up parts of the Chambers Flat acreage, south of Brisbane, where 12-year-old Tiahleigh lived with her foster family, the Thorburns, until she disappeared last October.
"We're looking for any evidence in connection to Tia's murder," Detective Inspector Damien Hansen said on Friday.
"It's an extensive crime scene."
The schoolgirl's body was found on the banks of the Pimpama River almost a week after she disappeared. However her backpack and school uniform have never been recovered.
Det Insp Hansen said police hoped to recover the items but there was evidence things had been burnt at the property.
"That's not uncommon for a rural property," he said.
Tiahleigh's mother Cindy spoke out on Friday for the first time since charges were laid, thanking police and members of the public.
"I miss my daughter terribly every day and a piece of my heart is missing," she said.
"I will not let Tiahleigh's death be in vain."
Rick Thorburn, 56, has been charged with Tiahleigh's murder and has been transferred to Arthur Gorrie jail after being treated at Princess Alexandra Hospital.
Police haven't commented on reports Thorburn, who hasn't spoken to detectives, tried to overdose on pills, but say an ethical standards investigation has been launched.
Thorburn's partner Julene, 54, and one of his sons, Josh, 20, were released on bail after being charged with perjury and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
Det Insp Hansen revealed Julene Thorburn had hired a lawyer before the family was arrested and had "assisted" police.
The couple's other son, 19-year-old Trent, faces the same charges as well as an additional charge of incest amid allegations he had sex with Tiahleigh.
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