We were proud to share the exciting news that earlier this year, our retired former Partner, John Fradgley, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) as part of the King’s Birthday Honours List. Today, we are thrilled to share the official photo and once again honour John for this remarkable achievement, recognising his contributions across the law, community service and his work within the Anglican Church of Australia.

John’s career at Bell Legal Group spanned over 45 years, during which time he has lived the firm’s core values of service, integrity, teamwork and commitment to the community. 

Starting as an Articled Clerk under the guidance of Lex Bell, former Mayor of the Gold Coast and State MP, John became one of our youngest and then longest-serving partners. His influence has not only shaped the direction of the firm but also played an integral role in defining the culture that makes us who we are.

Service to the Law

John’s legal career has been exemplary, marked by his long-standing dedication to Estate Planning and Wills after his early career years dealing with property transactions. Throughout his time at Bell Legal Group, he demonstrated a strong commitment to his clients, offering expertise and guidance through some of life’s most important moments.  

John is admitted as a Solicitor in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and the High Court of Australia. His expertise and knowledge are further underscored by his role as a Notary Public in Queensland, a position he has held since 1992. 

While John officially retired from his role as Senior Consultant at Bell Legal Group in 2023, his legacy continues to influence the firm and the wider legal community.

 

A Champion of Community

John’s contributions to the broader community extend far beyond his legal work. He has been an advocate for community service, offering his time and expertise to several charitable and educational organisations. One of the most significant aspects of John’s service was his enduring commitment to 4CRB, the Gold Coast Christian and Community Broadcasting Association, where as a foundation Board member he served as Chairman for over 20 years until he retired from the Board in 2022.

Under John’s leadership, 4CRB flourished as a community pillar, providing faith-based broadcasting services that enriched the lives of many on the Gold Coast. His dedication to the station and its mission was recognised by his peers and listeners alike, including his appointment as a life member of 4CRB. 

In addition to his work with 4CRB, John was actively involved with the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation, serving as Deputy Chairman from 2014 to 2018 and as a member from 2010 to 2020. His contributions to the foundation helped facilitate critical healthcare services and support programs for those in need across the region.

John’s service to education is also notable. Since 1989, he has served on the Board of All Saints Anglican School and since 2001, he has led the Board as its Chairman. His influence has played a key role in shaping the school’s growth and its ongoing success in providing high-quality education to generations of students.

 

A Legacy of Faith and Recognition

John’s faith has guided much of his community service, particularly through his involvement with the Anglican Church of Australia. His contributions to Anglican Schools Australia, where he served on the National Management Committee. John also had his life membership granted in 2019, reflecting on his dedication to advancing the mission and values of the Anglican Church through education and community engagement.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to the services of others, John was appointed as a Knight of Honour of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem in 2012 and a Knight of Grace in 2016 – an honour that reflects his standing as a respected leader in the community.

 

Shaping the Future of Bell Legal Group

Though John has retired, his impact on Bell Legal Group remains profound. His legacy of service, professionalism and dedication to the community continues to inspire the culture of our firm. John’s commitment to giving back is embedded in the fabric of who we are as a firm, and we continue to uphold the values he helped shape.

We are immensely proud of John and his achievements, both within our firm and in the broader community. His Medal of the Order of Australia is a well-deserved recognition of his lifelong dedication to helping others.

From all of us at Bell Legal Group, we offer our heartfelt congratulations to John and his family on this incredible honour. We are privileged to have worked alongside someone who has contributed so much, and we look forward to continuing his legacy of excellence and service in all that we do.