John Franklin Memorial Fellowship
The John Franklin Memorial Fellowship Trust was established in memory of Councillor John Franklin who passed away in April 1993. The Trust commemorates John's love of life and his untiring involvement in the local community.
The John Franklin Memorial Fellowship is offered annually, providing financial support to enable young people to either:
- undertake study or research
- obtain relevant experience
- progress an academic, cultural, vocational or sporting project.
Applications are open to young people 21 years or younger. Applicants must either:
- reside in Mudgeeraba or the surrounding area; or
- attend school (or other educational institution) in Mudgeeraba or the surrounding area.
2026 Memorial Fellowship has closed
This year the presentation will take place after the ANZAC Day afternoon service on Saturday 25 April at Elsie Laver Park, Mudgeeraba.
Contact
For more information please contact us on 07 5581 1883 or email franklinfellowship@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
Past recipient spotlight
We’re excited to introduce some of our past John Franklin Memorial Fellowship recipients.
2025: Saxon Miller
What high school year were you in when you received the award and what inspired you to apply?
Year 11, I originally applied for the fellowship because of my brother – he was a previous recipient and a very big role model in my life. He encouraged me to apply and I'm so grateful he did as the fellowship has allowed me to pursue things that I love such as the Duke of Edinburgh award. I'm very grateful for the support of both my local community and family for giving me the opportunity to receive the fellowship.
How did the award help you?
The award has allowed me to participate in my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which will allow me to not only go on two amazing trips with my cohort, but also give me the opportunity to develop a new skill, participate in a new sport and assist my community further.
How are you currently following your passions?
The award has allowed me to continue with my private drama lessons, furthering my individual skills and helping me run in Eisteddfods and other external programs.
What are your plans for the future?
I am planning to attend the University of Queensland to study a degree in philosophy, economics and politics.
2022: Lily-Rae Florey
What year in High School were you when you received the award and what inspired you to apply?
Year 12, during the time of my application, I was heavily encouraged to apply by my deputy principal. She was greatly involved with supporting our student leadership team and looking back I really appreciate her commitment and dedication during even the busiest times of the school term.
How did the award help you?
The award helped me to fund my laptop which I have utilised extensively throughout my university degree.
How are you currently following your passions?
I am currently in my 4th and final year of my Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) at the University of Queensland. I am set to be a practicing clinician at the start of 2027 and am excited to combine my interests in science and language to assist patients with their goals.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future include securing a new graduate position as a speech pathologist either in a hospital, school or paediatric private practice. I would love to potentially relocate from the Gold Coast to pursue a role, as my profession has strong ties in our job market with the UK and Canada.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying for the John Franklin Memorial Fellowship?
I would say to someone applying for the John Franklin Memorial Fellowship to find your point of difference or area of passion/interest that differs from other applicants and speaks to your community involvement.
Past recipients
The Fellowship was first awarded in 1994. The John Franklin Memorial Fellowship has been awarded to the following recipients:
- 2025 L Pearson, S Miller
- 2024 Ethan Burton
- 2023 J Katene, A Austen
- 2022 E Glen, L Florey
- 2021 J Spinks, K Halleday
- 2020 J Wood, K Miller
- 2019 W South, M Jones
- 2018 K Plume, F Miller
- 2017 A Reardon, E Lockley
- 2016 J McRae, K Shultz
- 2015 J Hickey, G Miller
- 2014 A Ewart
- 2013 H Halford-Smith, N Pasricha
- 2012 O Lucas, S Deegan, R Johnson
- 2011 O Whitt, K Baker
- 2010 P Baker, K Swift
- 2009 P O'Flaherty, M McAllister
- 2008 N Dickson, A Gibson
- 2007 J Rogers, J Thomsen
- 2006 J Dickson, T King
- 2005 K McKean
- 2004 T Solano
- 2003 B Benjamin, D Cruickshank
- 2002 J Rofe
- 2001 T Davis
- 2000 J Costello
- 1999 K Christensen, S Stanton-Cook
- 1998 S Tandy, T Malouf
- 1997 S Hurford
- 1996 S Donoghue, M Park
- 1995 V Warrener
- 1994 L Gotley