Sir Leo retires - Gateway Bridges to be renamed the ‘Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges’

When completed, the Gateway Bridges will be renamed the ‘Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges’, in recognition of the service of one of Queensland’s greatest public servants.

Sir Leo Hielscher, former head of Queensland Treasury and inaugural and current Chairman of Queensland Treasury Corporation, has ‘requested’ his retirement from government life, after 68 years in the public service.

Premier Anna Bligh said Sir Leo had indicated to Government that he would not seek reappointment to the Chairmanship when his term expires on 30 June this year.

“Sir Leo is an institution in Queensland. He is a man of great honour and integrity. In my view, no one person has contributed more to the development of Queensland than Sir Leo,” Ms Bligh said.

“After 14 years heading the Treasury, and the last 22 as Chair of QTC, it is with great reluctance that the government accepted Sir Leo’s request for retirement.

“If there is anyone in Queensland who deserves two bridges to be named after them, its Sir Leo.”

Ms Bligh said Sir Leo’s ability and respect in the international marketplace has served Queensland well for decades.

“When Sir Leo began work in the state Audit Office as a 15 year old in 1942, it was the start of a journey that would see him kickstart Queensland as a destination for business investment.

“He is directly responsible for the development of Gladstone as a resources hub, helped establish the Griffith University, the casino industry in Queensland and he was the architect of Queensland’s fully-funded superannuation scheme.

“He also played a very special role in the planning and financing of the first Gateway Bridge – which is why we have decided to rename both bridges in his honour when our new $1.88 billion duplication is completed.

“On behalf of Queensland, I thank Sir Leo for a life and career dedicated to making Queensland a better place.”

Treasurer Andrew Fraser said Sir Leo had indicated a willingness to continue to serve the state where possible.

“Sir Leo will assume the role of ‘Foundation Chairman’ of QTC, where he will be available to provide strategic advice when needed,” Mr Fraser said.

Sir Leo said his retirement from the Chairmanship would allow him to spend more time with his wife, Lady Mary, but he would answer the call as Foundation Chairman should his services be required.

“It’s been both an honour and a privilege to be able to dedicate my working life to the betterment of Queensland,” Sir Leo said

“I am absolutely delighted to accept the position of QTC’s Foundation Chairman”.

Current Chief Executive of QTC, Stephen Rochester, would succeed Sir Leo as Chairman.

“Stephen Rochester has been CEO of QTC since day one and knows the business better than anyone.

“He is unique qualified to take the reins at QTC, and we wish him every success.

“We will soon begin a global search for a suitably qualified candidate to fulfil Stephen’s position as CEO.”