A Legacy of Resilience: Dutch Heritage
Jarrod Pieter Bleijie was born on January 25, 1982, in Griffith, New South Wales, to Pieter and Christine Bleijie. His paternal grandfather’s story is one of survival and determination. Born in the Dutch East Indies, he endured the hardships of a Japanese internment camp during World War II, where, according to family lore, he once resorted to eating a rat to survive. After the war, seeking a better future, the family returned to the Netherlands but soon emigrated to Australia, laying the foundation for the Bleijie family’s life down under.
Early Life: From Griffith to the Sunshine Coast
In 1989, the Bleijie family moved to Caloundra, Queensland, where Jarrod’s uncle, Lindsay ‘Coop’ Cooper, had established the iconic Ettamogah Pub along the Bruce Highway. This establishment, inspired by Ken Maynard’s cartoons, became a family enterprise: Jarrod’s mother managed the office, his father oversaw the grounds and bar, and his grandmother ran the general store. However, the 1990s recession led to the pub’s sale, prompting his parents to open a camping equipment store in Caloundra.
Despite these challenges, Jarrod’s parents instilled in him a strong work ethic. He attended Caloundra State School and Caloundra State High School, where he served as school captain. His interest in politics was evident early on; at age 12, he won a mock school election with the slogan, “Be smart, be safe, be sure, vote Bleijie.”
Professional Pursuits and Legal Career
Jarrod pursued higher education at the University of the Sunshine Coast before transferring to Queensland University of Technology, where he completed a Bachelor of Laws in 2007. He began his legal career as an articled clerk and later as a solicitor specializing in commercial law on the Sunshine Coast. Wikipedia
Political Ascent: From Local Representative to Deputy Premier
In 2009, at just 26, Jarrod was elected to the Queensland Parliament as the Member for Kawana. He quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice from 2012 to 2015 under Premier Campbell Newman. In this role, he introduced significant legislation, including the Vicious Lawless Association Disestablishment (VLAD) Act, targeting criminal organizations.
After the LNP’s return to power in 2024, Jarrod was appointed Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Industrial Relations. He plays a pivotal role in planning for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, focusing on infrastructure development and regional engagement.
