Shine Lawyers investigating claims of historical child abuse alleged to have taken place at Bray Park

Lawyers are investigating claims of alleged historical child abuse at a high school and church north of Brisbane, after a man who claims they were sexually abused as a student came forward.

Lawyers are investigating claims of alleged historical child abuse at Bray Park State High School and Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers. Photo: Supplied

Lawyers are investigating shocking claims of alleged historical child abuse at a high school and church north of Brisbane, after a man who claims they were sexually abused as a student came forward.

Shine Lawyers are investigating claims of historical child abuse alleged to have taken place at Bray Park State High School and Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers at Bray Park, from 2009 to 2013.

Shine Lawyers abuse law senior associate Grahame Ingleton said their client alleges he was sexually abused by a person in a position of authority while at Bray Park State High School.

“Our client alleges he was sexually abused as a young boy by a person in a position of authority while at Bray Park State High School,” Mr Ingleton said.

“This abuse has had a profoundly detrimental impact on our client’s life, he has faced immense difficulties as a result of what he went through as a young boy.

“We would appeal for members of the Bray Park State High School community and the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers with any information to please get in touch.

“Our particular time frame spans 2009 to 2013.

“It’s sometimes a dangerous misconception that child sexual abuse is an issue consigned to the ‘dark old days’ when our experience shows it’s very much a present day concern.

“We continue to see survivors from more recent generations coming forward to report their abuse, and the strength in their conviction to pursue justice is admirable.”

The 'Witness Callout' issued by Shine Lawyers.

The law firm has since issued a “Witness Callout”, requesting former students and staff members involved with the school or church during that time period to contact them.

“If you were a former student, staff member or involved with the school or church from 2009-2013, we would like to speak with you confidentially about our investigation,” the statement read.

A Department of Education spokesperson said there was no higher priority for the department than the safety and wellbeing of students.

“The department is committed to responding appropriately to harm or the risk of harm to children and young people in its care,” the spokesperson said.

“If a claim is made against the department, the claim is dealt with by the Queensland Government Insurance Fund and their external legal advisors in accordance with whole-of-government guidelines about the management of litigation.

“The department does not comment on individual cases.”

A Queensland Police spokeswoman said police were not currently investigating any reports of historical child abuse at facilities in Bray Park.

“Police are not currently investigating any reports of historical child abuse claims at educational facilities in Bray Park,” the spokeswoman said.

“Anyone who has been a victim of abuse or has further information is urged to contact police.”

Originally published as Shine Lawyers investigating claims of historical child abuse alleged to have taken place at Bray Park