PELL Camp Wary of "Get the Bishop" Case

9 News
July 26, 2017

http://www.9news.com.au/national/2017/07/26/11/04/pell-camp-wary-of-get-the-bishop-case

Supporters of Cardinal George Pell are worried court proceedings against Australia's most powerful Catholic could turn into a case of "get the bishop".

Among the throng of media, protesters and public onlookers gathered outside Melbourne Magistrates' Court, where the 76-year-old appeared on Wednesday facing historical sex abuse charges, was supporter Karen Baxter.

"We're here to say this person needs to be given the benefit of the doubt," she told AAP.

"We're worried it's going to be the sort of Azaria Chamberlain media pack, let's just go get the bishop, you know."

Ms Baxter said she had known Pell since he was a child and described him as polite, friendly and methodical.

"We've got to also acknowledge the good things he's done," she added

Former mayor of Berwick in suburban Melbourne, Beverley Hastie, also voiced her support for Pell.

"He's a really nice, good guy," she said.

"There's a lot of support, quiet support, out in the community."

Many signs outside court criticised Pell and the court, but there were also positive words for the former Melbourne and Sydney archbishop, including "thanks for helping our family".

As he left the court room, four supporters told him "God bless you, Father" and clapped as he walked through the foyer surrounded by police. Pell acknowledged it with a nod.

Wednesday's hearing was told Pell is maintaining his innocence on the charges.

The matter will return to court in October.