Three-Year Wait for Justice After Fatal Stabbing
A man convicted of murdering his longtime friend in the Illawarra region will wait more than three years to learn his punishment after another significant delay in the legal proceedings. Paul John Cairney, 53, was found guilty by a jury in June 2025 for the fatal stabbing of 52-year-old Jason Smith during a fight in Bellambi on December 18, 2022.
Legal Representation Changes Cause Latest Adjournment
The sentencing hearing scheduled for November 2025 in the NSW Supreme Court was adjourned after Cairney's new defence team requested more time to review case material. Justice Stephen Campbell noted that the barrister who represented Cairney at trial, Siobhain Climo, and her instructing solicitor had both withdrawn from the case due to professional rules requiring their departure.
Justice Campbell acknowledged the situation was "generally unsatisfactory" but granted the adjournment, stating it was in the interests of justice for the new defence team to properly prepare. The judge highlighted the substantial amount of material involved, including a trial transcript running approximately 2000 pages.
History of Delays in Murder Case
This latest postponement continues a pattern of delays that have affected the case since the fatal incident. Cairney initially entered a not guilty plea in December 2023, with his first trial scheduled for November 2024. That trial was abandoned after three days when Justice Campbell discharged the jury because new evidence was served late to the defence.
A second trial began on May 19, 2025, with the jury delivering their guilty verdict on June 27, 2025, after deliberating for two days. Throughout the proceedings, Cairney maintained he acted in self-defence when he stabbed Smith during their altercation on Turner Esplanade.
Due to court and counsel availability, the new sentencing date has been set for March 13, 2026. Justice Campbell recognized the impact of the continued uncertainty on Cairney, who has remained in custody since his arrest on the night of the murder. The judge noted the defendant would naturally experience anxiety while awaiting final resolution of his case.
