But now the dust has settled and the city’s clergy sexual abuse survivors want to send a message to the complainants.

Peter Blenkiron, who was abused by disgraced Christian Brother Edward Dowlan, has been in close contact with fellow victims since the news broke on Thursday. 

Speaking at the new Health Hub cafe in Bridge Mall, which served as a meeting point for survivors under its previous name Boah Organic, Mr Blenkiron said many had expressed to him their admiration for the complainants ahead of the July hearing.

“There needs to be care for them during this process, that’s the message I’m passing on from many people, both members of the survivor community and wider Ballarat residents,” he said.

“Because if you don’t get that help, the legal process is like going down Dana Street on a bike with no brakes and expecting to land safely.”

Reports that Victoria Police had charged Cardinal Pell sent shock waves not only through Australia but the world.

The BBC, New York Times and Washington Post all ran articles detailing the story of the Ballarat-born Catholic Church leader.

But Mr Blenkiron said it would be important for the complainants to have access to ongoing case management and counselling leading up to and after the verdict, whether Cardinal Pell was found guilty or not.

“It’s a drawn out, harrowing process unless you’ve got that support, I’ve experienced it myself,” he said. 

“And I know people who’ve started the legal process and died before the finish.

“We don’t want that to happen. Survivors have spoken of their extreme bravery to stand up, and that’s not saying anyone is guilty or not.

“But their bravery needs to be acknowledged.”

Cardinal Pell has vowed to return to Australia to fight the charges, which he vehemently denies.