OUR TEAM

Get To Know Us

Andrew Harrison

Litigation Partner & Director

Andrew was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 1993 & commenced working at Bilbie Faraday Harrison in August of 1994.

Andrew is an experienced and decorated litigator who loves nothing more than getting involved in a good stoush with a worthy adversary.

Andrew is experienced in all aspects of litigation including civil litigation, commercial litigation, industrial, WH&S, personal injury, liquor & gaming and sports law. Andrew acts for some of Newcastle’s most respected and established sporting organisations, property developers and commercial operations and appears regularly in the District, Supreme and Federal Courts.

Andrew is particularly passionate about righting wrongs; assisting people to work through what can be an often complex maze of their legal rights and where necessary to stand up for themselves. Andrew is an experienced advocate who enjoys appearing in courts in all jurisdictions.

Andrew’s passions outside the law are his family, his mates, cricket, sport in general, ferrying four kids to sport, music, cars and motorsport.

Honorary solicitor to the Basketball Association of Newcastle Limited and Newcastle Umpire’s Association | A pastmentor to an Official participant in the Australian Sports Commission National Officiating Scholarship program, operated by the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Institute of Sport | A life member of the University of Newcastle Cricket Club | A keen surfer and member of East End Board-riders Club | Rob’s greatest passion is his family

Robert Faraday-Bensley

Commercial Partner & Director

Rob is a passionate and experienced Corporate and Commercial Solicitor with a focus on providing accurate, concise, commercial and practical advice to all of his clients, exceeding required turnaround time frames at all times.

Rob has worked for over 25 years as a commercial lawyer in London, Sydney, Adelaide and Newcastle.

Rob has significant experience in all aspects of capital raising, drafting and negotiating all manner of complex commercial agreements, ASX listings, mergers and acquisitions, commercial litigation, insolvency, mediation, property development, Corporations Act advice, legal structuring, undertaking all forms of legal advice and drafting work for not for profit, charitable and sporting organisations, listed corporations and reporting to boards. Rob is an entrepreneur with interests in a number of other businesses.

Jessica Townsend

Property Lawyer

Jessica Townsend joined Bilbie Faraday Harrison as a Solicitor in 2025. She was admitted to the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2016 after completing her Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business at the University of Newcastle, followed by a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice at the College of Law.

Jessica practises primarily in property law, with additional experience in commercial matters, wills and estates, and liquor licensing. She brings a considered and practical approach to her work and is committed to providing clear, outcome-focused advice to her clients.

Jessica brings a calm and thoughtful approach to her work, particularly in property law, where she takes pride in guiding clients through significant life and business decisions. Her attention to detail, clear communication, and genuine care for client outcomes are central to her practice.

Outside of the office, Jessica enjoys spending time with her young family, especially exploring local parks and bushwalks around the Hunter region.

Joseph Killen

Property Paralegal

Joseph Killen joined the team at Bilbie Faraday Harrison in 2024 as a Paralegal. He is currently in his final year of a Bachelor of Laws (Honours), having previously completed a Bachelor of Development Studies at the University of Newcastle. He will be admitted as a solicitor in late 2025.

Joseph has worked with Bilbie Faraday Harrison for the past year, gaining experience primarily in property law and conveyancing. Prior to this, he volunteered at the Hunter Community Legal Centre, further developing his interest in client-focused legal work.

Joseph is particularly interested in the practical and interpersonal aspects of property transactions and enjoys supporting clients through what is often one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Joseph regularly assists clients in complex and challenging transactions, and loves nothing more than seeing a matter through from start to finish, especially when it ends with a happy settlement.

Outside of work, Joseph enjoys mountain biking, playing tennis, and spending time outdoors.

Shay Campbell

Paralegal – Wills & Estates

Shay has worked in the legal industry for over 30 years and has a broad range of knowledge and extensive experience in relation to Probate and Estate Planning matters.

Shay is compassionate and understanding of the fact that her clients are often going through a difficult time and takes the time to help clients understand the process involved in administering and finalising an estate.

Shay works to ensure that she makes the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Shay’s interests outside of work include spending time with her family, and enjoys watching the NRL and cheering on her team.

Ashley Harrison

Graduate – Litigation and Commercial

Ashley Harrison began at Bilbie Faraday Harrison as an Office Junior in 2019 before progressing to a Paralegal in 2020, before working as a Graduate and is now a Solicitor in the firm’s litigation and commercial teams. She holds a Bachelor of Business (majoring in International Business), a Bachelor of Laws (Honours), and a Master of Law with Distinction in Employment and Labour Relations, from the University of Newcastle.
 Ashley has a strong interest in employment and labour relations and regularly assists clients with workplace disputes, including unfair dismissal, general protections actions, and general advisory work. She also has experience in commercial and transactional matters, making her a versatile member of the team who can support clients across a range of legal issues.
 Outside of the office, Ashley enjoys trying new restaurants, playing piano, road tripping, and spending time with her partner and family.

Nola Brice

Receptionist

Nola Brice is the foundation of Bilbie Faraday Harrison. After completing a year at business college, she began working with Mr Bilbie in January 1961, initially as his second secretary. At the time, Mr Bilbie and Mr Whitford each had a secretary, and Nola was secretary number two—until Mr Bilbie’s first secretary left to be married, at which point Nola stepped into the role and, thereafter, became the firm’s receptionist.
 Nola has been with the firm her entire working life. For over six decades, she has supported generations of partners, staff, and clients with unmatched grace, warmth, and dedication. Her presence is an enduring part of the firm’s history and character.
 Outside of work, Nola is a devoted gardener, tending lovingly to her centennial gardens, and it is well known to clients and staff alike for her love of cats.

Giselle Coates

Law Clerk

Giselle Coates joined Bilbie Faraday Harrison as a Law Clerk in 2025 and is currently completing her Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Diploma of Legal Practice at the University of Newcastle. She previously completed a Bachelor of Criminology in 2024 and will be admitted as a solicitor at the end of 2026.

Before joining the firm, Giselle completed legal placement with a criminal defence practitioner and has since gained hands-on experience across a range of matters, including wills and estates, employment law, litigation, commercial transactions, and criminal defence. She has assisted in preparing court documents, drafted deeds for business sales, and supported barristers in court matters. Her recent wins include helping to have a criminal charge dismissed and contributing to the resolution of unfair dismissal claims. Giselle is really an all rounder.

Outside of work, Giselle is a University of Newcastle Student Ambassador, a dance teacher, and a league tag player. She spends her time at the beach and losing herself in a good book.

Debra Aldred

OFFICE MANAGER

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Call us at: (02) 4929 5511

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