Susan McDonald – Springsure/Rolleston Branch Life Membership, 2021
Susan McDonald has been a dedicated and passionate supporter of ICPA since 1985, contributing more than three decades of service to improving educational opportunities for geographically isolated children and their families. Her longstanding involvement has included leadership at Branch and State levels, advocacy for Distance Education and an unwavering commitment to ensuring rural students have access to equitable educational opportunities.
Sue's involvement with ICPA began as a member of the Charleville Branch of the Air in 1985. When membership numbers began to decline, Sue and fellow members recognised the importance of maintaining a strong local voice for isolated families. Following a membership drive throughout the Springsure district, the decision was made to establish a new Branch.
On 2 December 1989, the Springsure Branch of ICPA was officially formed, with Sue serving as Vice President on the inaugural executive committee. Her leadership and enthusiasm helped establish the foundations of a Branch that would continue to support rural families throughout the district. As membership expanded to include families from Rolleston, the Branch became known as the Springsure/Rolleston Branch.
As a mother of five children, Sue had firsthand experience of the challenges associated with educating children in geographically isolated areas. Her children completed their early schooling through Distance Education before transitioning to boarding school, giving Sue a strong understanding of the educational needs of rural families at different stages of their children's schooling.
Sue's commitment to Distance Education extended beyond her own family. When ICPA successfully advocated for the decentralisation of the Schools of Distance Education, she was invited to serve on the Steering Committee for Capricornia School of Distance Education. Through this involvement, Sue contributed to an important period of development in the delivery of Distance Education services for isolated families.
Her contribution to ICPA continued at State level when she was elected to ICPA Queensland State Council, serving from 2003 to 2006. During this time, Sue helped represent the interests of rural and remote families and contributed to the organisation's ongoing advocacy for improved educational access and opportunities.
Sue's passion for rural education has continued across generations. At the time of her Life Membership nomination, she was a proud grandmother of eight, with her grandchildren experiencing a range of educational pathways. Two had completed their primary education at small rural schools before transitioning to boarding school, while three others were undertaking their education through Distance Education. These family connections reinforced Sue's understanding of the importance of maintaining accessible and appropriate educational options for rural children.
Throughout her involvement, Sue has generously contributed her time, experience and enthusiasm to ICPA. Her commitment has extended well beyond her own children's schooling years, reflecting a genuine belief in the importance of supporting future generations of rural families.
In recognition of her more than 35 years of involvement with ICPA, foundation leadership of the Springsure Branch, service on ICPA Queensland State Council, contribution to the development of Capricornia School of Distance Education and longstanding advocacy for rural education, Susan McDonald was nominated for Life Membership of the Springsure/Rolleston Branch. Her nomination acknowledged her exceptional dedication to ICPA and the lasting contribution she has made to supporting geographically isolated children and their families.
