Father Brian was moved from Tumut to a home for retired clergy in Canberra around two years ago after complaints about inappropriate touching and a boundary violation.

The allegations resurfaced after Catholic Archbishop Christopher Prowse was this week forced to defend his decision to house Father Brian next to two Canberra primary schools. 

Archbishop Prowse admitted it was a “mistake” not to tell the principal of a Canberra special needs school about Father Brian’s history after he moved in next door. 

The reportage has incensed Tumut parishioners who say the holy man was “too great for words”.

A former altar server for Father Brian, Eliza Anderson, claimed she was regularly alone with him and never suspected anything untoward.

“We all had time alone with him and he was always professional,” Ms Anderson said.

“A lot of people are upset about how ridiculous it is that one or two people can complain and ruin his reputation.

“He’s a warm and loving man who always saw the best in everybody and encouraged us to strive for our best.”

Father Brian worked at McAuley Catholic Central School in Tumut.

Former pupil Brooke Hartshorn said he was a pillar of the community until he was relocated.

“He christened me and my sisters, he married my parents; he was a massive part of the community and everyone loved him,” Ms Hartshorn said.

“He was the most accepting and kind man I've ever met.”

McAuley Catholic Central School’s 2013 school captain Jerona Grove said Father Brian epitomised the characteristics the Christian faith purports.

“Outside church he was down to earth, humble and always genuine to the wider Tumut community.”