Call for Witnesses: Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham
Koffels Solicitors & Barristers is seeking witnesses with information about two former religious brothers associated with Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham, New South Wales, during the 1980s. We are currently acting for a former student who has instructed us regarding abuse he experienced as a boy at school-organised camps, as part of our ongoing institutional abuse compensation work.
Background
Our client attended Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham. He instructs that in about 1986, while in Year 7, he was sexually abused by a Brother Hills at a camp in Terrigal, NSW, organised by the school.
He further instructs that in 1987, during a separate school camp, a Brother McGuire, who may also have been known as Brother McKewen, watched him and masturbated while he was showering.
We understand Brother Hills also taught science and mathematics at the school. We have evidence indicating he coached the school swimming team in 1989, when our client was in Year 10.
What we’re seeking
We would like to hear from anyone who can share:
- Recollections of school camps at Terrigal, or elsewhere, organised by Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham, during the 1980s
- Contact with Brother Hills in his capacity as a science or mathematics teacher, or as swimming coach, particularly around 1989
- Any recollection of Brother McGuire, or a Brother McKewen, at the school or on camps during this period
- First-hand experiences of abuse or concerning conduct by either brother, however minor it may seem
Your testimony, even if it seems minor, may be crucial in supporting a survivor pursuing justice in an ongoing legal investigation.
A note on this page
This page does not make findings or allegations against Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham. It provides general information to help former students understand their options and to assist our ongoing investigation. For general background on abuse claims involving the order, see our overview of Christian Brothers sexual abuse claims.
In New South Wales, time limits for civil claims relating to child sexual abuse have been removed in most cases, though individual circumstances still matter.
Get in touch
If you have any information, please contact Special Counsel Natalia Lapthorne or Paralegal Amber Smith on 02 9283 5599, or complete our free and confidential callback form below. Anything you share will be treated in absolute confidence.
