Susan McDonald was born in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England, eldest daughter of Don and Jessie Fowler.With her parents and sister Jillian, she emigrated to Australia in 1971.

After completing her schooling in Lithgow, NSW, Susan moved on to the Guild Teachers College, Sydney, where she completed her teacher training.

Marrying Graeme McDonald, shortly after completing her studies, they worked hard to acquire their dream of an outback cattle station.

Their family became complete with the addition of four sons and a daughter.

Susan taught all the children through their primary years, while feeding station staff and helping with the running of the business. 

As the distance education model de-centralized, she put time into the establishment of the Capricornia School of Distance Education.

Actively involved in the isolated Children’s Parents Association, Susan also did a stint as State Councillor.

In her spare time, which does not occur very often , she loves photography, patchwork, sewing, reading and walking her dogs.  Family and true friends are her life, and combined with her faith, she is grateful for the strength they have given her over her life so far.