The twin sister of a man found dead in Manly is pleading with the public to come forward with information as detectives prepare a report for the Coroner.
Emergency services were called to a home on Cove Avenue, Manly, about 6.20am on Thursday 11 June 2026, after a man was reported to be unresponsive. NSW Ambulance paramedics rendered assistance; however, the man was unable to be revived.
The man was soon identified as 54-year-old Brett Whittaker.
Detectives say at this time Brett’s death is not being treated as suspicious; however, they are seeking to clarify the circumstances leading up to him being discovered.
Northern Beaches PAC Commander, Superintendent John Duncan, urged anyone with information to come forward for the sake of Brett’s family, who want answers.
“While there is no evidence at this time to indicate his death is suspicious, we want to know how did Brett get to be in that position and how long was he there before emergency personnel arrived.”
“We have information that a number of other people were with Brett in the unit the previous day (10 June 2026), and we’ve been able to confirm he was alive at 2.30am, but we want to know where he was and who he was with in the intervening hours until his body was found at 6.30am.”
“We know there were calls from the location to other people, and it’s those people we hope can provide some clarity to how Brett came to be alone – and so unwell – at that time of the morning,” Supt Duncan said.
Brett’s twin sister, Janine Colless, is pleading with the public to help Police.
“Brett was a Narrabeen boy, loved by many, and he was proud of his painting business,” Janine said.
“Brett would give you the shirt off his back to help anyone, but he was also a larrikin who would strap a coffin to the top of his much-loved van.
“He was really looking forward to being a poppy but, unfortunately, has just missed out. I hope someone out there will come forward and help police understand what happened.
“I miss my brother,” she said.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information about Brett’s death or movements before he was found is urged to call Manly Police Station on 9976 8099 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
