Murder count of Linda Sidon stuns man's friend

Ms Sidon - a New Zealand-born part-time cleaner who had a history of anxiety, anorexia and depression. Photo / Supplied

In the decade they've known each other, Stephanie Dahl only ever thought the best of her friend Daniel Heazlewood.

But yesterday, Heazlewood, aged 28, faced Southport Magistrates Court in Queensland charged with the murder of his mother, Linda Sidon.

An emotionless Heazlewood said nothing during his appearance and his case was adjourned until November 19.

Heazlewood has been a person of interest for police ever since they ramped up investigations into Ms Sidon's 2009 disappearance.

Ms Sidon - a New Zealand-born part-time cleaner who had a history of anxiety, anorexia and depression - had originally been thought to have committed suicide.

But new leads this year increased police focus on her disappearance.

In August, a five-day search for her body in the Gold Coast hinterland was fruitless, but the arrest of Heazlewood came a day after police completed a forensic search at the government housing unit where he lived with his mother.

Ms Dahl, who described herself as Heazlewood's best friend, said the developments had shocked her. She said the arrest had been "full-on."

"Never, ever," she said when asked if she ever considered her friend might face charges. "Being a friend, I do support him - that's all I've really got to say at the moment."

Ms Dahl refused to comment on whether she had ever discussed Ms Sidon's disappearance with Heazlewood.

Barrister Chris Rosser said his client would be applying for Supreme Court bail and intended to fight the charge.

"He believes in his innocence and that's why it's come as a shock to him," Mr Rosser said outside court.

"It doesn't appear to be a very strong case. It's a circumstantial case."