About Julia Leu

My husband, Andre, and I live with our two teenage sons on a commercial certified organic tropical fruit farm, which we established 17 years ago, in Lower Daintree, QLD.  I was born in Melbourne and have been fortunate to have travelled extensively, including to many remote locations throughout the world. I first came to FNQ in 1976 with Andre and lived in Kuranda and Cairns, prior to spending 9 years living in Sydney. We returned to this area in 1991.  

I hold a Masters in Business Administration from James Cook University, a Bachelor of Arts and Graduate Diploma in Education from Melbourne University and a Graduate Diploma in Communication from NSW University of Technology. 

I have nearly 30 years public sector experience, the vast majority of which has been in senior management roles in Queensland local government and the Commonwealth Public Sector.  Whilst also helping to run the growing family business. 

Prior to commencing my career in local government, I gained 15 years experience in community services, health, housing and indigenous affairs as a teacher and senior commonwealth employee in both Victoria and New South Wales.  I have also worked in the tourism industry in hotels, restaurants and in retail.  I have significant senior management experience and have been acting Chief Executive Officer of Douglas Shire Council since May 2007.  I established the first Community Services Department at Douglas Shire Council in 1994 and have been involved in a wide range of initiatives that have improved the economic, social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of this community.

From my experiences in local government I believe I have an excellent understanding of the opportunities and challenges that will face the new Cairns Regional Council.

My own interests centre around my family, current events (I'm a bit of a news junky), enjoying films, our spectacular environment and I try to find some time to keep fit.

As I mentioned on a previous page the work on this web site is still in progress and there will be updates continuing to provide you with more information about my policies and how I can address the concerns you raise with me.