3rd February, 2026.
John Bicknell of Bargo, at 87 years old has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours. John Bicknell, arrived in Australia as a British child migrant. He overcame a challenging start in life to run a Lakesland orchard for 55 years. He also served 40 years as a member of the local fire brigade, including three as president. He is a passionate advocate for farmers, he campaigned on issues like water access and founded action groups. John was an advocate for many years for farmers rights to farm; attending and convening many meetings and was the secretary/president of a number of organisations such as the Orchard Industry Action Group, The Oaks/Oakdale Water Supply Scheme. Mr Bicknell is also a prolific writer and speaker, documenting his experiences in books such as The Dirty Bloody Jizzy and Twelve Years in "Care", and giving over 50 talks. Beyond farming and writing, he has been active in music, church communities, and mentoring students at Picton and Mount Annan High Schools. John has overcome many challenges to become the person he is today and thoroughly deserves this recognition.
