The trial of Rajwinder Singh, accused of murdering Toyah Cordingley, has commenced in Cairns, Australia. Cordingley, a 24-year-old woman, was found dead on October 21, 2018, at Wangetti Beach, located north of Cairns. Her body was discovered buried in a shallow grave, showing signs of multiple stab wounds and deep cuts.

Singh, a 41-year-old former nurse, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. During the opening statements, defense attorney Greg McGuire argued that Singh was "in the wrong place at the wrong time" when Cordingley was killed. He described the murder as a "horrifically violent death" and suggested it could have been committed by someone acting out of extreme anger or under the influence of drugs.

McGuire emphasized that there was no evidence of sexual assault, noting that Cordingley was still wearing her bikini when she was found. He portrayed Singh as a "quietly spoken, placid, caring man" who was not known to carry a knife.

In a recorded conversation with an undercover police officer, Singh reportedly stated, "It happened in front of me; I ran for my life. They were going to kill me as well. That was my biggest mistake — running away." He claimed he did not know Cordingley and described the alleged killers as having their faces covered.

Crown prosecutor Nathan Crane presented evidence linking Singh to the crime scene through mobile phone tower data, DNA found on sticks at the burial site, and the movements of a distinctive blue car. The prosecution alleges that Singh arrived at Wangetti Beach about 20 minutes before Cordingley and that his phone was turned off for six hours that day. However, road cameras indicated he did not take the most direct route home, suggesting he may have had the opportunity to dispose of Cordingley's belongings.

McGuire countered the prosecution's narrative, suggesting that other individuals in the area, including men armed with large knives for pig hunting, could be potential suspects. He mentioned a local tiler, Evan McCrea, who had expressed a desire to go pig hunting shortly before the murder.

The trial is expected to last three weeks, with a jury of 10 men and two women selected to hear the case. Justice Lincoln Crowley reminded jurors of the importance of impartiality, given the case's high profile and the strong community sentiments surrounding it. The jury will also visit Wangetti Beach as part of their deliberations.

As the trial progresses, more than 470 potential witnesses, including Cordingley's family and law enforcement officials, may be called to testify. The proceedings continue under the scrutiny of the court, with opening addresses expected to resume shortly.