Queensland mourns Sir Leo Hielscher, who brought Gateway Bridge, Expo 88

3 months ago 16

We’re sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. We’re working to restore it. Please try again later.

Skip to sections navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

Long-serving public servant Sir Leo Hielscher has died, aged 98.

Sir Leo first took a job in the public service at the age of 15 in 1942.

He retired from Queensland Treasury Corporation in 2010 at 83 years old, after reporting to 10 premiers and 15 treasurers.

A photo of Sir Leo Hielscher as Queensland’s under treasurer in March 1988.

He facilitated the development of Griffith University, Queensland’s casino industry and two coal terminals, established the QTC, drove the planning and financing of the first Gateway Bridge, and helped deliver Expo 88 and the 1982 Commonwealth Games.

The road bridges that carry the Gateway Motorway are named in his honour.

Treasurer David Janetzki said the state had lost the grandfather of modern Queensland with the passing of Sir Leo.

Sir Leo Hielscher announced his retirement alongside then premier Anna Bligh.

“Sir Leo dedicated more than half a century in the service of Queensland, followed by many more years graciously offering counsel to Treasurers across the political divide and contributing his vast experience to both the public and private sector,” Janetzki said.

“His lifetime of service helped build the modern Queensland we know today and his legacy will live on in the state he leaves behind.”

Speaking to the ABC, Health Minister Tim Nicholls remembered Sir Leo as a great Queenslander who was “always very fulsome” in offering advice to treasurers of all political persuasions, even after his retirement.

“He had a very long and productive life and made a great contribution to what Queensland is today,” he said.

The Gateway Bridge was renamed as the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges in 2010.

“I can remember the stories of loan council meetings when the then premier of the day and Sir Leo would go down and battle it out with the demons in Canberra to make sure Queensland got its fair share.

“We still have those battles with the demons in Canberra. It’s a little more civilized, but Leo was staunchly and first and foremost a Queenslander.”