The Property Council of Australia has announced their Western Australian Retirement Village Manager of the Year for 2017. Each year the accolade recognises and rewards the extraordinary contribution to village life that is made by hardworking and dedicated village managers; and this year’s recipient has been commended as a worthy winner.

Jemma Viney, from Masonic Care-operated Forest Lakes Lifestyle Village in Thornlie, was praised by residents of the village, describing her as a “committed and dynamic individual who possesses a dedication and accountability to her role rarely seen in the industry.”

In her 7 years at Masonic Care WA, Ms Viney progressed from an administration support role to Assistant Village Manager, and then to the Village Manager role, which now encompasses managing what is Masonic Care WA's largest village.

The residents of Forest Lakes Lifestyle Village added; “Jemma is able to analyse any situation and respond with the appropriate balance of empathy, support or provide the right amount of direction as required.”

This year’s award also saw the title of runner-up given to Mark Hoebee, Village Manager of St Ives Centro in Jolimont.

“As the company representative in a village, the manager role is vital to ensuring the operator is in tune with the needs of residents and is able to respond quickly to any issues that may arise,” said Property Council WA Deputy Executive Director, Alix Rhodes.

“An active and passionate village manager has the ability to greatly improve the quality of life for all residents.”

“The Property Council congratulates both Jemma and Mark for their dedication and commitment to the retirement living industry,” Ms Rhodes said.