Sue’s involvement in urban catchment management forums set up by the then Cape Metropolitan Council and her work for the Water Research Commission have given her a broad knowledge of water-related matters and developed her understanding of various technical specialities.

She has a keen interest in research on freshwater ecosystems, as well as in the R&D and application of technologies geared at overcoming industrial and socio-economic challenges in water use.

She has written numerous articles for the WRC's magazine, The Water Wheel, on issues ranging from water supply and sanitation, river rehabilitation, irrigation schemes, and the effects of climate change, invasive species and waterborne diseases.

She is well informed of the effects of pollution on freshwater systems, and is able to conduct physico-chemical and biological water quality monitoring.

She is familiar with relevant legislation, including general authorisations and water quality standards and guidelines.