But, right beside them, a search team made up of Australian Federal Police, forensic staff and uniformed officers were also hard at work. 

As they sift through every scoop of dirt for traces of human remains and the muddy pit deepens, so too does the mystery of where Donald Mackay’s remains may lie. 

The search, which entered its sixth day this morning, appears no closer to solving the 36-year puzzle. 

So far, it’s believed only animal remains have been unearthed in a 50-metre by 30-metre area which encompasses a small dam and “farm tip”. 

Griffith police commander Michael Rowan, who is heading the search effort, wouldn’t comment on what, if anything, had been uncovered. 

The slow, methodical dig has been hindered by wet weather and could continue until Saturday. 

“The search continues as planned, it was always intended to take five to seven days,” Superintendent Rowan said

“It’s certainly a job we’re treating very seriously and applying appropriate resources to. 

“It’s one of those (slow) processes, but we’ve got to do it right,” he said. 

In order to do so, they’ve been spotted using a remote-controlled aircraft to monitor proceedings from above. 

“There’s quite a bit of high-tech scientific equipment being used by appropriate experts on site,” Superintendent Rowan said. 

The owners of the property, which is under 24-hour guard, are not believed to be suspects in the case and are understood to be very distressed by the situation. 

Superintendent Rowan said they had been very co-operative with police and workers were given the opportunity to tend to their crop.

“There was some produce that needed to be picked and we allowed that to take place.” 

The Daily Advertiser understands it isn’t a full-time arrangement but workers will be allowed to ensure the crop is maintained when necessary.

Fast facts

* The search enters its sixth day today

* Police focus remains on 50-metre by 30-metre area which encompasses a small dam and “farm tip” area

* So far only animal remains have been unearthed

* Fresh speculation and theories have emerged, including:

– Mackay’s suspected killer, James Bazley, could be the “anonymous” police informant.

– New information to police alleges Mr Mackay was shot dead in the Griffith Hotel car park before being bundled into the boot of a car and driven to the Hay property by two hitmen.

– Former Victorian Police deputy commissioner Carl Mengler said the discovery of Mr Mackay’s remains would likely lead to fresh murder charges.

* Police claim the search could last until the weekend and, if a human bone is found, up to a month. 

* The property, Willow Farm just west of Hay, remains under 24-hour guard.

* Lettuce pickers were allowed to return to work on Saturday.