RetireAustralia’s Armidale community, Newling Gardens Retirement Village, has as of last week appointed a new village manager, Jennifer Thomas.

Ms Thomas’ welcoming to the village comes after the retirement of the much-loved former village manager Sharron Chappell, who spent nine years with staff and residents looking after the community.

A native of Sydney until her move to Armidale in 1983, Ms Thomas was previously a property manager, and, prior to that, a teaching aide, bringing a qualified wealth of experience to her new role as village manager.

In her first days in the management position, she has enjoyed learning about the peaceful and secure village life and getting to know Newling Gardens’ residents.

“Some of them will just pop in for a chat, and I love that,” she said. “I’ve heard some beautiful stories.”

As Village Manager, it is Jennifer’s responsibility to look after all aspects of the day-to-day running of the village, and to ensure life is relaxed and stress-free for everyone.

“Everything has been positive so far, and everyone has been supportive and friendly,” she said.

“The residents especially have been so supportive.”

As Newling Gardens is known for its friendly community and busy social calendar, Ms Thomas remarked on how she plans to further enrich the social program at the village and become acquainted with the activity schedule.

“I’m looking forward to organising a few more activities with the residents,” she said. “I might even join in the singing mornings!”