Wednesday 1 July 2026

Dear Lutheran Education Queensland Community,

Following the announcement that the current Executive Director, Tanya Crooks, will retire at the end of 2026, the Council of Lutheran Education Queensland (CLEQ) initiated a comprehensive recruitment process to identify the next Executive Director of Lutheran Education Queensland.

After a thorough and competitive process, supported by Hender Consulting, CLEQ is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Gary Adsett to the role.

Gary brings significant leadership and governance experience, together with a deep understanding of the independent schooling sector. He currently serves as General Manager at the Queensland Independent Schools Block Grant Authority and has previously held senior leadership roles at the YMCA and within the Uniting Church of Australia (Queensland Synod). Through these roles, Gary has developed a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing schools and has established relationships across many of Lutheran Education Queensland’s communities. Gary is guided by a deep and authentic Christian faith, reflected in his commitment to service, leadership, and the mission of faith-based education.

Gary would like to take this opportunity to share the following words:

“I am deeply honoured and humbled by the trust placed in me to serve as Executive Director of Lutheran Education Queensland at such an important time in our journey. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work alongside you, our school leaders, school councils, and early childhood/OSHC communities, as partners in strengthening and growing our shared mission. Together, I look forward to listening, learning, and building strong, collaborative relationships that support each of your communities to flourish. It is a privilege to join you in this work of providing outstanding education and care as authentic missional expressions of the Lutheran Church in Queensland.”

CLEQ is confident that Gary is well-positioned to lead Lutheran Education Queensland into its next phase, providing continuity, clarity, and strategic direction. We also acknowledge and thank all those who contributed to the recruitment process.

On behalf of CLEQ, I extend our sincere thanks to Tanya for her outstanding leadership and service, and we look forward to welcoming Gary as he commences in the role.

With gratitude,
Andrew Stanke