Susanne Stirton – Quilpie Branch Life Member, 2013
Susanne Stirton has made an outstanding contribution to ICPA and rural and remote education, dedicating more than 30 years to supporting geographically isolated families through her involvement at Branch and State levels. Joining the Quilpie Branch in 1983, Sue became a highly respected member whose professional knowledge, leadership and passion for education strengthened ICPA's advocacy and provided invaluable support to rural families.
Sue's commitment to education began long before her involvement with ICPA. Born in Brisbane, she completed her secondary education at Brisbane Girls' Grammar School before undertaking her primary teaching qualifications at Kedron Park Teachers' College. Throughout her teaching career, Sue worked in several Queensland state schools, including Sherwood, Wowan and Charleville, as well as Charleville School of Distance Education. She also served as a School Area Teacher Adviser and later as Careers Guidance Officer at Charleville State High School.
Sue taught her children through Charleville School of the Air, gaining firsthand experience of the challenges associated with educating children in geographically isolated areas. This combination of professional teaching experience and practical knowledge as a Home Tutor enabled Sue to provide valuable advice and a balanced perspective on rural education issues.
At Branch level, Sue demonstrated exceptional dedication, serving as Quilpie Branch Secretary from 1989 to 1994 and President from 1995 to 1998. She was a regular attendee at Branch meetings, actively contributed to discussions and represented Quilpie at numerous ICPA Queensland State Conferences and several Federal Conferences. Her willingness to share her knowledge and experience made her a highly valued member of the Branch.
Sue was also a tireless supporter of Branch fundraising, particularly the extensive catering undertaken at the Quilpie Races. She willingly contributed her time and organisational skills to these activities, helping ensure the Branch remained financially strong and able to continue its advocacy. Her commitment also extended to the Priority Country Area Program (PCAP), where she was actively involved with the Southwest PCAP Area Committee.
In 1996, Sue was elected to ICPA Queensland State Council, serving until 2001. During this time, she led the Teacher Education portfolio, contributed to submissions, chaired delegations and represented ICPA at numerous meetings and conferences. Her professional expertise and understanding of rural schooling made her a strong advocate for improving teacher education and attracting qualified teachers to rural and remote communities.
One of Sue's most significant contributions was her involvement in developing and implementing the Host Student Teacher Program. As program coordinator, she worked to provide student teachers with placements in rural and remote schools, allowing them to experience teaching in small schools and isolated communities. The initiative aimed to encourage graduates to consider returning to rural Queensland to pursue their teaching careers, helping address the ongoing challenges of attracting and retaining teachers in these areas.
Beyond her formal leadership roles, Sue was widely recognised for her mentorship, encouragement and generosity towards other ICPA members. She welcomed new families, supported those beginning their Distance Education journey and helped parents navigate educational requirements and government processes. Much of this assistance was provided voluntarily, well beyond the expectations of her official ICPA positions.
Sue's passion for education and commitment to improving teaching and learning opportunities inspired those around her. She encouraged new members to become involved, mentored Branch delegates and office bearers, and helped ensure the ongoing strength and sustainability of the Quilpie Branch.
In recognition of her 30 years of dedicated membership, extensive Branch leadership, five years on ICPA Queensland State Council, contribution to teacher education initiatives and unwavering support for rural families, Susanne Stirton was awarded Life Membership of the Quilpie Branch on 22 November 2013. Her Life Membership was presented by Quilpie Branch President Tracy Sargent, acknowledging an exceptional contribution to ICPA and her lifelong commitment to ensuring quality educational opportunities for children living in rural and remote Queensland.
