Progress in Bowen State School historical abuse case, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers say

Lawyers investigating a child sexual abuse claim from Bowen State School in the ‘80s are certain valuable information remains stored in the memories of former staff and students.

Lawyers investigating a child sexual abuse claim from the '80s are certain valuable information remains stored in the memories of former staff and students. Picture: Google Maps/Stock pic

Lawyers investigating a Bowen State School historical child sexual abuse claim from the ‘80s are convinced valuable information remains stored in the memories of former staff and students.

Lawyer Sherrilea Discombe is representing a person who claimed he was sexually abused when he was nine and 10-years-old by a male teacher in ‘80 and ‘81.

Ms Discombe said last time a witness call was run in the Townsville Bulletin, a number of people contacted her office and participated in confidential conversations.

“We had people call in, and two of those gave us some very useful information that supports our investigation,” Ms Discombe said.

“One person actually identified the same alleged perpetrator.”

Lawyers representing a historical sexual abuse claim that allegedly took place at Bowen State School in the 80s are appeal for information.

Ms Discombe said she’s been involved in historical sexual abuse cases at Maurice Blackburn for seven years, and this is the first time in her work a witness as identified the same person.

“This is quite rare, especially in historical cases given the lapse of time,” she said.

“We are continuing our witness appeal because we assume there are more witnesses out there, based on information we’ve received so far.”

Bowen State High School opened in 1961 with a cohort of 101 students. Picture: Supplied.

The team is particularly interested in people who might be reluctant to reach out.

All conversations with the legal team are confidential, and any memories “no matter how big or small” can help with the abuse victim’s case.

Key features of the Bowen State School case are allegations that a male teacher would give students direct “one-on-one attention” outside class and entice them with lollies and money.

Witnesses do not have to be victims of abuse themselves - anyone with information about who worked there, how the school was run, which students attended and more are encouraged to come forward.

Information like yearbooks and photos are also sought after.

Witnesses can contact Maurice Blackburn Lawyers on 07 5430 8713 or [e-mail]

Originally published as Progress in Bowen State School historical abuse case, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers say