Julie Coutts first stepped into Pimlico State High School's Arts program in 2005 as a Visual Arts Teacher. Over the next 20 years, her commitment transformed her role from teacher to subject area co-ordinator, then to Head of Department.

Under Julie’s guidance, the school's Arts program has flourished. She has become a cornerstone of the showcase event, Pimlico Presents, an annual variety concert that features the talents of over 300 students in music, dance, and drama to an audience of 1,700. Julie has contributed to this event for over half of its 42-year history, evolving from poster designer and photographer to production team member, and mentoring the current artistic director. The concert, popular in Townsville's arts calendar, often has sell out shows each year.

Julie also expanded Pimlico’s art exhibition, transforming it into ‘Artscape’. This annual event now features hundreds of student works across visual arts and film, television and new media, drawing over 700 attendees from the school community.

Her leadership in the Arts Faculty has been marked by fostering unity among a diverse team of over 30 staff members. Particularly in music, Julie’s supportive approach has enhanced opportunities for students through tours, camps, and performances, while also helping raise over $100,000 for charities through the annual Charity Benefit Concert.

Appointed Head of Department in 2011, Julie has worked tirelessly to continue a vision of excellence and collegiality following the sudden passing of her predecessor. Her dedication is evident in the outstanding learning outcomes for Pimlico’s arts students, who regularly win awards in the state government’s Creative Generation competitions.

Determined in her support and promotion of The Arts, Julie has dedicated countless hours to events and contributed significantly to the design of the new $20 million Denise Glasgow Performing Arts Centre. Her meticulous oversight has ensured the facility meets both school and community needs.

In her nomination, colleagues described Julie as an "inspiring educational leader who, in her own quietly considered way, has made an enormous contribution to the school and wider community."