The Abuses of Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan
For decades, survivors of institutional abuse have carried the weight of their experiences, often in silence. Today, we look at the allegations against Brother John Joseph Donnellan, known in his religious capacity as Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan, in the hope of empowering survivors to come forward and seek the justice they deserve.
Who Was Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan?
Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan was born on December 12, 1936, and took his final vows with the St John of God Brothers in 1965. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he was a member of the religious community at various St John of God Brothers institutions and schools across New South Wales, Victoria, and even New Zealand. In July 1979, he was appointed to a senior position at a St John of God Brothers institution in Queensland.
Key Institutions where Brother Bede was known to have worked:
- Kendall Grange, Morriset, NSW: A boarding institution for disadvantaged boys, starting in the 1950s.
- St John of God Training Centre, Cheltenham, Victoria: Established in 1953, accommodating boys aged 10 to 18.
- Yarra View, Lilydale, Victoria: A training farm established in 1957.
- Churinga, Greensborough, Victoria: Another boys’ home opened in 1966.
- Hostel in Mentone, Victoria: A facility for men in their twenties during the 1970s.
- Granada Hostel, Ashgrove, Brisbane, Queensland: Involved in the 1970s.
Allegations and Findings
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse investigated Brother Donnellan’s conduct and found five claims of child sexual abuse made against him. These claims involved male victims and spanned from 1954 to 1992, occurring in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
A Call to Survivors
If you or someone you know has been affected by the actions of Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan, it’s crucial to understand that you are not alone. Koffels Solicitors and Barristers stand ready to support survivors of historical institutional abuse. With a deep understanding of the sensitive nature of these cases, Koffels offers a compassionate and confidential environment to discuss your experiences and explore the options available for compensation.
Why Come Forward?
Coming forward can be a significant step in the healing process. It’s not just about seeking compensation; it’s about being heard and acknowledged. It’s about holding those responsible to account and ensuring that such abuses never happen again.
Koffels Solicitors and Barristers: Your Advocates for Justice
Koffels Solicitors and Barristers have a proven track record of representing survivors of historical abuse. They understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to providing the highest level of legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome for their clients.
Take the First Step
If Brother ‘Bede’ Donnellan’s story resonates with you, reach out to Koffels Solicitors and Barristers. They offer a confidential, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and guide you through the legal process.
Remember, your voice matters, and it’s never too late to seek justice.
