The 39-year-old woman whose body was found in bushland at Lightning Ridge has been identified as a well-known former Gulargambone resident Christine Neilan.
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As police pleaded for anyone with information about the suspicious death to come forward on Thursday, it was revealed Ms Neilan had only been living in Lightning Ridge with her mother for a few weeks before her death.
Her body was found by two local residents in bushland near Sunflash Street and Black Prince Drive about 9am on January 9.
A post mortem examination revealed Ms Neilan died from serious head injuries and Strike Force Bullarook has been established by detectives from the homicide squad and Central North Police District.
Homicide Squad Commander Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty said Ms Neilan was last seen about 10am on January 8 when she left her home in Lightning Ridge and went for a walk without her small white dog Sooky.
"She left her dog behind, which was quite unusual," Detective Superintendent Doherty said.
"At the time, she was wearing black shorts and an orange and blue short-sleeved shirt with an Indigenous pattern," he said.
"She's from a large family. Her mum lives in town, it's a sad time for them and they want answers."
Detective Superintendent Doherty said some people had come forward with information and police were still canvassing for witnesses.
"I'm sure there's people from that area who know what happened," he said.
"Police are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who had contact with or saw Christine in the 24 hours before her body was located.
"We urge any member of the community who may be able to assist detectives with their investigation to come forward and help us provide answers for Christine's family."
Who to contact if you know more
Anyone who has information which could assist Strike Force Bullarook detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or using the Crime Stoppers online reporting page - nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
Police said information provided would be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Community members should not report crime information via the NSW Police Facebook, Twitter or Instagram accounts.
- If this story has raised concerns for you or someone you know, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
