Loud Fence ribbons cut off in 'disrespectful' vandalism

Maureen Hatcher, who set up the Loud Fence movement in support of victims and survivors of sexual abuse, said the action was very disappointing.

"It seems to happen every so often," she told The Courier.

"I don't know who this person is or what they are getting out of it but it's a fairly vicious act when even the priests at the church have said it's okay for [the ribbons] to stay."

"I don't understand it, I'll never understand why people get upset about ribbons."

Ms Hatcher said she expected people would replace them without being prompted.

"If one gets cut down, six get put up. I'm imagining that will happen without there being any sort of plan as such. People can do it in their own time."

The ribbons were reportedly cut down around midday on Wednesday (May 22) and discarded onto the footpath.

Ms Hatcher said the vandalism might be connected to George Pell's appeal, which is due to take place in June. "It was what happened before his last court appearance," she said. She said she suspected that same person was probably responsible each time.

"I just think it's a shame. We know those ribbons help people and help with the whole healing process. It just feels really disrespectful and selfish - it's another kick in the guts."

The first Loud Fence was set up outside the former St Alipius Boys' School site, where some of the worst abusers were based, in Victoria Street, Ballarat.

In 2015, people were invited to tie ribbons to the school fence in support of those who had suffered sexual abuse.

The movement has since spread well beyond Ballarat with people around the world taking part.

Have you signed up to The Courier's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.