Sir Leo Hielscher will be honoured with a State Funeral at the end of August.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the family of the visionary behind modern Queensland’s economic transformation had accepted an offer to commemorate his life-time of achievements.
Premier Crisafulli said the State Funeral would take place on Thursday, August 28, commencing at 2pm at Brisbane City Hall.
“Sir Leo helped set the foundations of Queensland’s economy and industry growth for more than half a century and shaped the State we know today,” he said.
Premier Crisafulli said Sir Leo, who was born in Eumundi on October 1, 1926, would be remembered for almost seven decades of dedicated service to the people of Queensland, including leading the establishment of the Queensland Treasury Corporation from 1988.
He said during his time in public service, Sir Leo served as Queensland’s Deputy Under Treasurer and Under Treasurer, reporting to 10 Premiers and 15 Treasurers across the political spectrum.
“He was the Queensland Treasury Corporation’s foundation Chairman, a position he held for 22 years before retiring in 2010.”
Premier Crisafulli said under Sir Leo’s leadership, major projects which fuelled significant infrastructure development and economic growth for the state were made possible, such as the Queensland Cultural Centre at South Bank and the Gateway Bridge, renamed later in his honour.
“He also played a pivotal role in the global success of game changing events for Queensland including the 1982 Commonwealth Games and World Expo 88.”
Sir Leo received the Knight Bachelor in 1987, conferred by Her late Majesty Queensland Elizabeth II for his outstanding and distinguished service as an Officer of the Crown.
In 2001 he was accorded the Centenary Medal for distinguished service through the Queensland Public Service.
Sir Leo was bestowed the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2004 for service to economic growth and development, to business and finance, and to the community through strong support for major arts, cultural sporting and charitable organisations.
He was named a Queensland Great in 2007, recognised as one of the key figures responsible for transforming Queensland’s economy over multiple decades.
Premier Crisafulli said the State had lost a state-builder and the grandfather of modern Queensland, following the passing of Sir Leo on August 4, aged 98.
“We are thankful to Sir Leo and his family which supported him to dedicate a lifetime to serving the State in many capacities.
“The State Funeral will provide an opportunity for Queenslanders to pay tribute to Sir Leo and his exceptional life and contributions.”
