The co-managers of RetireAustralia’s Murray Gardens Retirement Village have been nominated as New South Wales state finalists for Retirement Living Council’s Village Manager of the Year award.

RetireAustralia CEO Alison Quinn has wholeheartedly endorsed the duo, Anne and Chiquita, stating: “At RetireAustralia, our philosophy is centred around fulfilling the needs of our residents, both as a collective and as individuals with unique desires and requirements.”

“Anne and Chiquita continually demonstrate their commitment to this philosophy, and have embedded it within the culture at their village.”

Since becoming part of the Murray Gardens family in the joint role, Anne and Chiquita have strived to elevate the village’s daily operations and the daily lives of residents, as well as introducing initiatives to the village including partnerships with the Rotary Club and Delta Society.

More recently, they forged a partnership with a local art gallery to turn part of the village’s community centre into an exhibition space, to showcase the residents’ love of art and welcome the surrounding community to engage more closely with the village.

Interestingly, both women are cousins, hence their close personal bond has deeply enriched their management styles.

“We grew up together so we know each other really well,” said Chiquita. “It’s such an honour to share this job with someone I love.”

The winner of the Village Manager of the Year award will be announced at the NSW Retirement Forum on Tuesday the 12th of September.