The hotly contested regional winners of the Programmed Award for Village Manager of the Year have been announced. Find out what leadership in retirement living looks like…
Each year the National Retirement Living Awards celebrate high achievement across six categories, recognising the people and companies going the extra mile to ensure senior Australians enjoy their retirement.
The Programmed Award for Village Manager of the Year honours the leaders who create a happy, harmonious community through their leadership and personal commitment to residents.
New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory: Lexi Connor, Boambee Gardens Retirement Village, Retire Australia
Located in stunning Toormina, south of Coffs Harbour, Boambee Gardens Retirement Village offers a laidback, holiday vibe. Lexi Connor was recognised for approaching the challenges of COVID-19 with enthusiasm and energy, finding new ways to keep residents safe and socially connected.
“Lexi’s outstanding residents and staff engagement results, and her strong sales, are a testament to her leadership and vision,” says the Property Council’s executive director of retirement living, Ben Myers.
Victoria and Tasmania: Trudi Holz, Salford Park Retirement Village, Stockland
Trudi Holz stepped into the role of village manager at Salford Park, in Melbourne’s east, in November 2020 after nearly two years at Stockland Highland Retirement Village in Craigieburn. “Trudi faced different challenges at each village, from one with COVID-19 cases to another with low occupancy and an ageing asset,” Myers explains.
“Within six months she has led a strong rebound, posting a 10 per cent increase in occupancy. She has established asset management plans for new fences and landscaping, renegotiated a new bowling green lease and upskilled her team.”
South Australia and the Northern Territory: Sabrina Leo, Trinity Green, Lendlease Retirement Living
Located at Mawson Lakes, Trinity Green boasts 92 villas and is home to 134 residents. “Since joining Trinity Green in January 2018, Sabrina has implemented significant changes, with a focus on driving sustainability,” says Myers. “She rolled out several successful initiatives to keep residents engaged during COVID-19 lockdowns which supported their mental and physical health and wellbeing.”
Western Australia: Steven Daly, Arcadia Waters Maddington, Arcadia Group
Arcadia Waters in Maddington, on the banks of the Canning River, boasts a $3.5 million world-class resort club house, library, gymnasium, indoor and outdoor swimming pool and internet café.
“While Arcadia Waters is a spectacular facility, well-located retirement villages filled with beautiful homes, stunning streetscapes and premium amenities means nothing without the right leader – and Steven was chosen by our judges because he is the right leader.”
Queensland: Marcia Teevan, Milford Grange Retirement Community, Bolton Clarke
Milford Grange, in Ipswich, is on the doorstep of picturesque parks, and is a thriving community with its own bowling green and pool room. Myers says Teevan was selected by the judges for “being a source of reassurance and practical help, particularly during COVID-19 restrictions”.
“Marcia’s deep commitment to her residents and refreshing approach, underpinned by her expertise in community care, have delivered innovative solutions to ensure residents have access to extra support when it’s needed.”
Each regional winner will now vie for national recognition at the National Retirement Living Awards, part of the National Retirement Living Summit on the Gold Coast from 22-24 November 2021.