NSW Police have officially charged Chris Dawson with the 1982 murder of his wife, Lynette Dawson.

The 70-year-old was arrested on the Gold Coast on Wednesday morning and taken to Southport Police Station.

The case has been brought back to light following hugely successful crime podcast The Teacher’s Pet, produced by The Australian.

Mother-of-two Lyn Dawson, was last seen on Sydney’s northern beaches 36-years-ago.

The former rugby league player allegedly moved his teenage lover into the family’s Bayview home just days after Lyn went missing.

Macquarie Media Reporter Anthony Laughton was in Southport Arrest Court as Chris Dawson applied for bail, fighting an extradition request from NSW Police.

Chris Dawson slumped in chair, face in both his hands, leaning his elbows on his knees. Continually looking down as he sits in the dock. @NewsTalk4BC @2GB873 @3AW693 @6PR

— Anthony Laughton (@arlaughton) December 5, 2018

The magistrate has denied Dawson’s bail plea, turning him over to NSW Police.

He’s been refused bail and will appear at Central Local Court today.

On Wednesday, Lyn Dawson’s niece Renee Sims tells Chris Smith the arrest is “incredible news”.

“To actually have something happen is, to be honest, a bit of a shock.

“But a really, really good shock.”

Click PLAY below to hear from Renee Sims

The Australian’s Hedley Thomas who helmed The Teacher’s Pet podcast tells Ben Fordham “it’s been a very moving period talking to people who were very close to Lyn Dawson”.

“I think now we just wait as the legal process unfolds.

“We have to also ensure Chris gets due process.”

Click PLAY below to hear from Hedley Thomas

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller spoke with Ben Fordham following Wednesday’s development.

“As a result of the investigation and as a result of information that has come from the public, this week we received wonderful information from the DPP that there was sufficient evidence to prosecute,” he says.

Lyn Dawson’s family are seeking privacy at this time, but are relieved.

Click PLAY below to hear from NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller

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Stunned and relieved: Family responds to the arrest of Chris Dawson