Leanne Kohler

CEO, Desert Channels Queensland

Leanne has a strong people-first management style and many years’ experience in government administration and private business. Having lived and worked in rural and remote communities all her life, she has a clear understanding of the issues and challenges they face. Outside of work Leanne would like to spend more time with her two sons, Garreth (18) and Jacob (9). Leanne grew up in Alpha, and moved to Longreach 32 years ago, working first for the Dept. of Primary Industries then, from October 2002, as the founding CEO of fledgling natural resource management group, Desert Channels Queensland.

While growing this organisation from a shoe-string budget and a staff of three, to a multi-million-dollar budget and 19 staff, Leanne also built a successful commercial company under the DCQ umbrella. Since 2009 DC Solutions has donated 100% of its commercial profits to the DCQ Foundation for more on-ground natural resource management works to be undertaken that the community have identified as a priority. Six years ago, Leanne also purchased and runs a busy local café, Darcy’s Diner employing 11 locals, whilst operating and managing BB’s Bistro at the Longreach RSL employing another 11 locals. Leanne is an advocate for the disability sector and is currently the Secretary of Outback Independent Living, a community group working at establishing day respite, short, long term, and emergency accommodation for people with disabilities.

LinkedIn: DesertChannelsGroup
Instagram: @desertchannels
Facebook:@desertchannels
YouTube: @desertchannels
Twitter: @desertchannels