Dark underside of one of Australia's most prestigious schools exposed at Royal Commission

9 News
September 1, 2015

http://www.9news.com.au/national/2015/09/01/19/44/dark-underside-of-one-of-australias-most-prestigious-schools-exposed-at-royal-commission

Two former Geelong Grammar students have testified about their brutal treatment, and the school's dismissive response, at the Royal Commission into Child Sex Abuse.

Established in 1855, Geelong Grammar has enjoyed a prestigious reputation - attended by Prince Charles and boasting a list of successful students including Rupert Murdoch and the late Kerry Packer.

However, in its long history there have been some dark chapters, read today as the Royal Commission examines its 32nd case study.

Former students recalled their experiences of sexual abuse while boarding at GGS in the 1960s and 1970s.

The reported offending was allegedly done by chaplains, a house resident and other students.

There were also damning descriptions of the school's reaction to complaints.

"I found the principal's response guarded, dismissive and aimed at derailing my questions," one victim said.

Among the witnesses at the Royal Commission will be students, teachers, past and present headmasters, as well as perpetrator Jonathan Harvey, who served a 10-month jail term for offences in the 70s.

He had taught at the school for 21 years.

The commission will focus on five convicted offenders.

Counsel assisting said serious and repeated assaults happened from the late 1950s through to 2007, and there will be evidence that staff knew of a number of allegations.