Sydney man died in suspected dog attack at iconic ‘Saturn’s Rings’ property

Three utes carrying caged dogs were spotted driving away from an iconic south-west Sydney property known as “Saturn’s Rings” where a 23-year-old man is believed to have died in a suspected dog attack.

Police were called to the rural property on Badgally Road, Eschol Park at midday on Wednesday, after the man’s body was found with significant injuries in a paddock close to the road.

The man isn’t believed to be a resident or worker at the property, which is more than 40 hectares in size. Multiple dogs were on the site and it is unknown whether they were registered or microchipped.

The injuries on the man’s body suggest he had been attacked by the dogs before his death.

On Friday, a number of dogs were transported from the gated property in three vehicles. A sign displayed near the entrance shows an image of the house with the words “Mount Universe” printed on it.

Construction on the property named Universal Power House began in 1979 by Polish immigrant Stefan Dzwonnik, with hopes for it to become a “mecca for a worldwide movement directed toward a better life on Earth”, according to archival information published by Campbelltown Library.

It was nicknamed “Saturn’s Rings” for the unique, circular design of the concentric units forming the house.

Dzwonnik envisioned the property providing living quarters for his family while also hosting distinguished members of society. The property remains in the hands of the Dzwonnik family following Stefan’s death in 2018.

Officers from Campbelltown Council attended the site on Friday at the request of police.

“Council is supporting police inquiries and will continue to assist as required, in accordance with its legislative responsibilities, including determining the registration and ownership status of the dogs,” a spokesperson said.

Staff at St Gregory’s College Campbelltown, the independent school beside the rural paddocks on Bagdally Road, were unaware of the suspected attack until Friday morning. A spokesperson reported no unusual activity near the school on Wednesday.

A report of the death will be prepared for the coroner.