After the initial shock, I knew I wanted to see justice served. But being 14 at the time I was so naive about how the legal system worked. I definitely knew it wouldn't be easy, but it turned out to be one of the most horrible and traumatic times ever.

The upcoming trial consumed my life. I could think of nothing but having to recount the most disgusting and horrific memories over and over again. It was agonising. I couldn't stand the thought of been interrogated and drilled for days on end. Not to mention the sterile and serious atmosphere where everyone wore clean-cut suits and spoke in legal terms I didn't understand.

I felt so out of place, so uncomfortable. I tried to be strong in front of all these adults, but I was on the verge of tears the majority of the time. And a courtroom is no place for a child. It was just the lawyers and me, I felt so intimidated.

I had some pretty bad days where I blamed myself for everything. After about more than a year of lawyers and police meetings it became obvious this trial could continue for years. I had my future to think about. Going into year 12 during intense, traumatic trial would have affected my mental health and could have had a negative impact on my schooling. With plenty of legal advice I decided to drop the case so I could focus on recovery and moving on with my life.

If the legal system didn't make things so hard for girls like me our society would be a much safer place.

Not enough girls come forward and tell the police about their experiences because of how pointless it seems. I hope one day very soon this changes, so what happened to me never happens to another girl. More people would know they have a chance to get the justice they deserve.

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