Community
14 June, 2025
Farewell, Les Williams
THE king of the Far North’s childcare centre network has been remembered for his dedication to improving the lives of children and families of the region, his generosity, community and sporting service and devotion to his family.
Leslie (Les) James Williams, died suddenly on the Gold Coast on May 15, surrounded by his beloved family.
The 57-year-old built up a network of 10 early learning centres across the region, employing 500 staff.
Childs World Early Learning Centres director admissions Alison McCallum-Harding said, for more than 32 years, Mr Williams dedicated his life to the betterment of children and families in North Queensland.
“In 1993, he opened his first early learning centre, not just as a business, but as a calling and over the years he developed over 35 early learning centres,” she said.
“In 2011 he built Childs World Early Learning Centres which were recognised as the first in Australia to have four modern early learning centres in one location designed to meet national quality standards.
“From that centre grew a network of 10 early childhood services across the region, each shaped by his vision: a world where every child is safe, supported and given the very best start in life.
“To Les, quality education wasn’t a privilege, it was a right. Over the years his centres became havens for thousands of children, places where curiosity was celebrated, and where care and compassion were as important as curriculum.
“Les didn’t just create learning environments, he created second homes. Places where children were embraced with warmth, where educators were empowered to give their best and where families felt they belonged.”
Ms McCallum-Harding said Mr Williams recognised the real dangers North Queensland children faced, particularly around water, and founded Australia’s first dedicated Child Care Swim School, so the children at his centres had access to life-saving swimming lessons.
He was a passionate supporter of the Cairns Hospital children’s ward and many local charities, including sponsoring local dance competitions, junior sports clubs and the special children’s Christmas party.
Mr Williams was credited with saving the Kangaroos Junior Rugby League Club, where he served as president, hands-on coach and volunteer.
“His time on the field was deeply personal, coaching his only son Jace and investing in the growth of countless young players who looked up to him as a leader, a role model and a father figure,” Ms McCallum Harding said.
“He didn’t just coach footy, he coached character.”
She said the centre of his world was his family.
“Les was, first and foremost, a devoted husband to his beloved wife Tania with whom he shared a beautiful life,” Ms McCallum -Harding said.
“Together, they raised six children and built a life full of love and purpose and he was a proud grandfather to five grandsons and was joyfully awaiting the arrival of his first granddaughter later this year.”
