Rev Leo Newell commenced ministry in Atherton in 2005 following four and a half years in Proserpine. He was ordained in 2000 and prior to this served as a youth and children's worker for the Uniting Church in Gympie and New Farm, Brisbane. Leo began his working life as a mechanic on a local council where he worked for 19 years, all the while being involved in running youth groups and Kids Clubs. While he loves ministering with people of all ages Leo is still passionate about ministry with young people. He serves as honourary chaplain at Atherton State Primary School, teaches year 7 Christian Religious Education, and runs Xtreme for youth. Leo is married to Lou-Anne and they have two adult daughters.