Queensland Government
Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services

Photo Caption: State Commissioner Susan Van Eyk has made it her objective to meet as many of today's Girl Guides as possible

Commitment, determination and self-sacrifice. These are qualities sought by the Girl Guides and exemplified by their State Commissioner, Susan Van Eyk: one of Queensland's extraordinary women.

Brisbane-based Susan is one of the everyday women with extraordinary lives nominated to an online tribute gallery to mark the 100th International Women's Day on 8 March. The Department of Communities set up the gallery to recognise the exceptional efforts of women making a difference in our communities.

A mother of two young children and full-time government legal officer, Susan draws on these qualities to keep her hectic life on track.

"I couldn't have done it (the Commissioner's role) without teams and leaders throughout the state,' says Susan, who completes her five-year term in April.

She was appointed in 2006 at age 31. Since then, she has become a mother to Andrew, aged four, and Ben, now nine months.

Susan's nominator describes how she spends most weekends taking the Girl Guide movement to regional centres, visiting hundreds of girls and leaders over thousands of kilometres, partaking in camps and award ceremonies, Guide hut openings and press events.

Since becoming a Brownie in 1982 in Rochedale, southeast of Brisbane, Susan has held many leadership roles.

What is it about the Girl Guides — established early last century — that still holds appeal for young Queenslanders?

"Organisations like Girl Guides provide life skills and teach self-confidence. We encourage girls to do their best, no matter what they are doing," she says.

"And they learn in a supportive environment. We offer a non-formal education program that is a dynamic, flexible and values-based, with training in life skills, decision-making and leadership."

For more information about guiding visit www.guidesqld.org or call 3252 3061.

To visit the International Women's Day online gallery go the department's website.