Local Government Experience

As Hervey Bay City Council's CEO 2002-2005, Leigh initiated a suite of innovative projects to maintain transport, community and social infrastructure, manage Hervey Bay city's high growth rate (the second
fastest growing city in the country at the time) whilst providing efficient services and improving governance of a diverse mix of rural and coastal hamlets surrounding the main urban area.

In 2003 he developed a commercial strategy and policy for Hervey Bay City to reinvigorate Council businesses and to ensure business entities were inextricably linked to capacity building and economic development for the city. The highlight was the redevelopment of Hervey Bay's airport and terminal for jet services to Sydney. The airport was awarded Australian Major Airport of the Year in 2006 at the National Convention of the Australian Airport Association.