Sue McDougall

Sue McDougall is currently the Director of the Western Australian Botanic Garden, bringing more than 35 years of horticultural experience to her role. Sue is well-known across Perth for sharing her gardening expertise in print, radio, and TV. She has been a familiar voice and face on 6PR and television, extolling the virtues of organic gardening and championing environmental causes.

In the 1990s, Sue was given the opportunity to share her gardening knowledge with the 6PR audience. Initially a fill-in, she soon became a beloved fixture, guiding listeners every weekend on how to plant, prune, and protect green spaces. Her dedication and passion for gardening have shaped her communication skills, making her a trusted and respected voice in the community.

In her role at Kings Park, Sue supports a team of world-class scientists, plant breeders, arborists, and horticulturists to ensure Western Australian species play a prominent role not only in private gardens but also in public spaces. She is excited by the opportunity to work with a highly skilled, dedicated team to promote and conserve species for future generations. Sue sees her role as a continuation of promoting the importance of native plants in preserving the state’s biodiversity and working towards their conservation.

Sue's extensive experience and deep connection to the community have equipped her well for this prestigious position. She is committed to showcasing the unique flora of Kings Park in world-class ex-situ displays that can be grown in various garden settings. With a drying climate, she emphasizes the importance of using endemic Western Australian species in ornamental horticulture.