POLICE have started excavating the backyard of a Chambers Flat home owned by murder accused Rick Thorburn as they search for clues into the killing of Tiahleigh Palmer.
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On Friday, a large excavator was driven into the property and could later be seen digging holes in the backyard of the two-hectare rural property on Flesser Road.
Several forensic police clad in blue protective suits could be seen working in the backyard as other officers guarded the scene in front of a huge media pack.
Police say they are looking for any evidence that may aid the murder investigation, including Tiahleigh’s school uniform and backpack that have never been found.
Detective Inspector Damien Hansen said forensic police were conducting a "routine" search.
"There's evidence soil has been turned," he said.
"As part of the forensic search, we'll be looking to see if anything has been buried there."
Tiahleigh Palmer’s naked body was found on the banks of the Pimpama River in November last year, a week after she was reported missing on October 30.
Her 54-year-old foster father Rick Thorburn, who claims he dropped Tiahleigh off at Marsden High school that morning, has been charged with her murder.
Mr Thorburn will face court on December 21, where police will allege he murdered Tiahleigh at the Flesser Road property on October 29.
Mr Thorburn’s 19-year-old son Trent has been charged with incest, two counts of perjury and attempting to pervert the course.
He was denied bail in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Mr Thorburn’s wife Julene, 54, and his 20-year-old son Joshua have also been charged with perjury and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
They will face Beenleigh Magistrates Court on October 10.
Under the close watch of police, Ms Thorburn has been allowed to return to her Flesser Road property on two occasions to feed her horses.
