McLennan, 50, has been found guilty of 30 counts of sexual assault against four victims between 2005 and 2010.

Two of McLennan’s four female victims spoke in court yesterday about the humiliation and depression they faced following the assaults.

Victim impact statements from the two other victims were also tendered to the Bendigo County Court.

Judge Irene Lawson congratulated the women for being so strong.

“I want to say I appreciate the presence of all the victims today, and them speaking in court,” she said.

“What you did was very courageous and your actions have been vindicated by the verdicts returned by the two juries.

“I hope for the future you can repair the harm that’s been done. All the women involved have shown so much courage.

“You are all very strong women.”

Carrie* was one of two sisters who McLennan groomed for a sexual relationship in 2005.

Carrie was aged 15 at the time, her sister Alicia* just 13.

McLennan convinced both girls they were in a loving relationship and used them for sex over a period of several months.

Carrie said she had been “traumatised for years” by the assault.

“I have been overcome with feelings of hate and self-loathing... for believing that I was in a loving relationship,” she said.

“I blamed myself for not protecting Alicia.

“He abused us and I hated myself for letting it happen.”

Carrie said she tried to cope with her anguish through self-harm and prescription and illegal drugs.

Fighting tears she said she became anorexic and bulimic and tried to commit suicide several times.

But Carrie – supported in court by her partner and young child – said she would not let McLennan completely destroy her life.

“I have learnt I am strong and it’s not over yet,” she said.

Emily* was just 11 when she was sexually assaulted by McLennan.

Her victim impact statement was read to the court by Crown prosecutor Peter Jones.

Mr Jones said Emily had suffered from nightmares, stress, anxiety and depression since being sexually assaulted by McLennan.

Sam* was a teenager when McLennan indecently assaulted her.

She told the court she was left depressed an humiliated by the assault.

Her stepfather said the assault had an “enormous impact” on Sam’s life and her relationships.

“Her confidence in herself and other people has been shattered,” he said. “As a parent this is the worst feeling to see your daughter treated in this way.

“Young women need to know that predators like McLennan are locked away for a very long time.”

*Names have been changed to protect victims’ identity.