Dad charged in torture-murder of 1-year-old son (Brisbane, Australia)

Dad is identified as SHANE PURSSELL AKEHURST.

http://www.9news.com.au/national/2015/03/30/08/16/father-in-court-over-toddler-son-s-murder

12:26pm March 30, 2015
Murder accused dad excused from court

A Queensland father accused of killing his toddler son has been excused from appearing in court.

Shane Purssell Akehurst, 33, had a grievous bodily harm charge upgraded to murder on Saturday after his son Corby died in hospital.

It's alleged Akehurst assaulted Corby repeatedly over the past four months.

The toddler, who had not yet turned two, was airlifted to hospital with critical injuries from Kin Kin, near Gympie, on Wednesday, but died on Friday night.

Akehurst was originally charged with grievous bodily harm and four counts of assault occasioning bodily harm.

He's now charged with murder, torture and five counts of assault occasioning bodily harm.

Akehurst, who is in custody, was excused from appearing in the Brisbane Magistrates Court when his case was mentioned on Monday.

His lawyer requested the matter be adjourned until May 4.