Decades-old abuse case resurfaces as convicted predator prepares to be released

Survivors of Dennis John McKenna’s abuse at St Andrew’s Hostel are still demanding a formal apology and a prominent memorial as the shire blocks proposed sites and the offender nears release.

Victims of serial paedophile Dennis John McKenna, who abused dozens of boys at St Andrew’s Hostel in Katanning during the 1970s and 80s, remain without a formal acknowledgment of their trauma. Although the Western Australian education department agreed to fund a $750,000 memorial and demolish the former hostel, the Katanning Shire blocked the proposed location in the town’s all-ages playground, citing the need for careful deliberation.

Shire President Kristy D'Aprile said the council wants to consult remaining victims and secure state approvals before proceeding. A 2012 inquiry chaired by former Supreme Court Justice Peter Blaxell identified eleven local figures who enabled McKenna’s crimes and noted his skill at grooming the community. While state politicians have apologized, the shire has not, prompting survivors like Todd Jefferis to label the omission “disgusting.” A recent court ruling will permit McKenna to be released on November 17 under strict conditions, spurring advocates to urge any undisclosed victims to speak out in hopes of keeping him incarcerated.