Suzi McQueen – Charleville Branch of the Air Life Member, 2019
Suzi McQueen joined the Charleville ICPA Branch of the Air in 2004, when her son Ben was in Year 1 at Charleville School of Distance Education. Just one year later, Suzi took on the role of Branch Secretary, a position she would hold for almost 14 years and through which she became described by her fellow members as the “mainstay” of the Branch.
Throughout her years as Secretary, Suzi’s exceptional organisational skills and “can do” attitude helped keep the Branch operating. She coordinated much of its fundraising, including the annual bar at the Charleville SDE Sports Muster, and worked alongside fellow members on catering projects for bull sales, AgForce days and the popular Leo Sayer concert. These activities raised substantial funds to support the Branch and its work.
Suzi’s commitment to ICPA extended well beyond her local Branch. In 2011, she took on the additional role of ICPA Queensland State Fundraising Officer, while continuing as Branch Secretary. In this role she coordinated the annual Art Union, sourced prizes, managed the purchase and sale of ICPA Queensland souvenirs and organised photo competitions, with selected photographs featuring on ICPA greeting cards. Her work was characterised by dedication, attention to detail and a strong commitment to ensuring correct procedures were followed.
During these years, Suzi continued to fulfil both her Branch and State responsibilities through some extremely challenging periods for her family. Her Branch particularly acknowledged her remarkable dedication and perseverance, as well as the support provided by her husband Graham and son Ben, who assisted with transporting souvenirs, preparing Art Union tickets and travelling to conferences.
On 9 June 2019, members gathered for the final meeting of the Charleville ICPA Branch of the Air, bringing to a close a Branch that had served geographically isolated families since 1976. On this significant occasion, Suzi McQueen was awarded Life Membership, recognising her outstanding service and the central role she had played in keeping the Branch active for so many years.
Suzi’s Life Membership provided a fitting acknowledgement of 15 years of active Branch involvement, almost 14 years as Secretary, and her extensive contribution to ICPA Queensland. Although the Charleville Branch of the Air closed that day, Suzi’s Life Membership—and her contribution to ICPA—would continue with her into the next chapter of her involvement in the organisation.
