Former private school coach, Andrew James Cleary, fronts court over child sex accusations

A former Geelong Grammar and Geelong College rowing coach could face trial over a number of alleged child sex offences.

Andrew James Cleary, a former Geelong College, Geelong Grammar and Rowing Australia mentor on his way into the Geelong Magistrates Court.

A former Geelong private school coach could face trial over a number of alleged child sex offences.

Andrew James Cleary, 66, is facing 10 historical charges against teenagers alleged to have taken place over a two-year period across different locations in Victoria.

He stands accused of seven counts of sexual penetration of a 17-year-old child while under his authority as a sports coach, and two of the same offence against a 16-year-old child.

He is also accused of the same offence on a teen, aged 16 or 17, in North Geelong.

The former Geelong College and Geelong Grammar staff member appeared in the magistrates court on Tuesday.

His matter was adjourned for a committal mention in Geelong on July 1, where his defence will receive a brief of evidence including copies of witness statements and exhibits in relation to the charges against him.

Andrew Cleary.

The hearing is commonly used for a judge to decide whether an accused should be committed to stand trial at a higher court, or if any or all or the charges can be heard and finalised in the magistrates court.

Cleary is a former Board member at Rowing Victoria and was previously involved with Rowing Australia.

He has helped guide several Olympic rowers including ex-Geelong College students and Barwon Rowing Club members over his coaching career.

His daughter is also an Olympian who competed at the Rio games.

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Originally published as Former private school coach, Andrew James Cleary, fronts court over child sex accusations