Newsroom

August 5, 2025

KENNEDY MP Bob Katter has paid an emotional tribute following the passing of Sir Leo Hielscher, describing the former Under Treasurer and architect of Queensland’s modern economy as a “giant of history” and “one of the greatest builders this state has ever known.”

“Queensland’s greatest titan has fallen,” Mr Katter said. “Sir Leo Hielscher – and I use the word ‘Sir’ with absolute reverence – left behind a state that was forever changed by his courage, clarity and commitment to building something better for future generations”

Mr Katter said that while many in public life are remembered for speeches or slogans, Sir Leo will be remembered for building ports, railways, power stations, and an entire industry base – and with it, the prosperity of Queensland.

“When Leo entered government, Queensland was a net importer of coal. Eleven years later, we were the biggest coal-exporting state on Earth.  He was the financial engine behind the infrastructure boom – 6,000 kilometres of rail, massive ports at Gladstone, Bowen and Mackay and major dams and power stations that fuelled the state’s growth.” Mr Katter stated.

Sir Leo served as Under Treasurer for nearly three decades and was instrumental in the states industrial rise under Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen. Mr Katter acknowledges both men as pivotal, noting their legacy should be recognised in a permanent way.

“If we built statues in Queensland, then two giants deserve them – Joh Bjelke-Petersen and Sir Leo Hielscher. They were Titans of the economy. They didn’t just talk. They built”

Mr Katter recalled the legendary story of Leo’s uncompromising economic vision when a major mining company approached the state government seeking to export raw bauxite.

“Leo laughed in their face. He said: ‘We don’t export bauxite – we export aluminium.’ That set the stage for what became one of the world’s largest aluminium production hubs at Gladstone. He backed it with the cheapest power in the word, thanks to a 1,500-megawatt power station, government-owned, run on free coal, with negligible labour and debt costs.”

Describing his youth, Mr Katter said he was one of many Queenslanders whose life was changed by the wave of prosperity that Sir Leo helped usher in.

“Every Queenslander owes a significant debt to Sir Leo. Thank you for your service.”