Kieran Moore, 25, and Tony Simmons, 26, appeared before Magistrate Les Mabbutt. Neither man applied for bail, which was formally refused by Mr Mabbutt.

Both accused have been in custody since their arrest in January.

Simmons was arrested by Bathurst detectives at a business in Pyrmont, Sydney following a tip off from a member of the public on January 17.

Moore was arrested the following day while in a park in Windradyne in Bathurst.

Mr Mabbutt yesterday adjourned both matters back to Bathurst Local Court on April 8, 2013 for mention.

Both Moore and Simmons will appear on the day via audio visual link-up.

Andrew Russell was last seen alive on June 2, 2009 leaving a newsagency in William Street. His movements were captured by the store’s CCTV as he walked from the business, but he has not been seen since. Since that day, Mr Russell has not accessed his bank account or contacted his family, with police holding grave fears for his safety.

In January, a search of an isolated property near Sofala using cadaver dogs and a line search by State Emergency Service  personnel failed to find any trace of Mr Russell.

And despite an emotional plea from Andrew’s parents, Bruce Herbert and Suzanne Wallace, appealing to anyone with information on the whereabouts’ of Andrew’s remains to come forward, no new information has been passed on to police.

Both Bruce and Suzanne said they want Andrew’s remains back, so he can be laid to rest.

Bruce urged anyone with information which would help the police find Andrew to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

“We just want him back,” Bruce said.