Sue-Ellen has worked in the LIS team since 2022. She brings a lifetime of hands-on experience across agriculture, land management and stakeholder engagement, shaped by growing up on a diversified family farm near Strathalbyn in South Australia. With early exposure to livestock production, irrigated fodder crops and horticulture, she developed a strong appreciation for practical problem-solving and the value of trusted relationships within rural communities.
Throughout her career, Sue-Ellen has supported landowners across South Australia and interstate. She previously worked as an independent fertiliser agent, collaborating with soil scientists and farmers to improve soil health, water retention and long-term productivity through biologically based approaches. Her work spanned vineyards, vegetable growers, livestock enterprises, horse properties and turf facilities, including large-scale remediation projects. This background reflects her longstanding interest in regenerative agriculture, soil science and landscape resilience.
Sue-Ellen also brings valuable lived and professional experience in quarrying and mining contexts. Having grown up next to a limestone quarry and later working in exploration, mining and landowner liaison roles, she understands the realities landowners face when navigating exploration and mining proposals. She knows firsthand what it feels like to receive a knock on the door from an exploration company to discuss land access and negotiations for an exploration drilling campaign that can continue for years. She understands consultation processes, regulatory pathways and the importance of clear, respectful communication between landowners, industry and community.
In her role with RBS, Sue-Ellen is known for her calm, adaptable communication style and her ability to explain complex issues in clear, practical terms. Outside of work, she enjoys camping with friends, working her horse on cattle, beach and trail rides, and building biodiversity on her small acreage.