Michelle Smith’s passion for retirement living and aged care was shaped long before it became her career.

Growing up, she spent much of her childhood around aged care facilities, watching her mother work as a head nurse and seeing firsthand the respect and dignity she showed the older generation.

“I grew up running around an aged care facility, I was sitting on residents’ knees when I was young,” said Michelle.

“That’s where my respect for older generations comes from — the wisdom and the lives they’ve lived. They deserve to be cared for and respected.”

Now Resident Services Manager at Nellie Melba Village, Michelle brings that same philosophy into her work every day.

“I’m very, very passionate about aged care,” she said.

“I believe in what I do. That’s why I do it. That’s why I love it.”

Michelle is particularly passionate about the continuum of care, believing that moving into serviced apartments at the right time strengthens confidence and helps residents maintain their independence for longer.

“Moving into serviced apartments can actually extend independence,” she said.

“It gives residents that extra support before things become overwhelming, and that makes a real difference.”

Michelle previously worked with Ryman at Linda Jones Village in New Zealand and returned to the organisation after relocating to Australia with her family.

Nellie Melba Village in Wheelers Hill.

“I missed the busyness that is Ryman, I can’t do without it now,” she said.

Her role at Nellie Melba is a constant balance of people, planning and support.

“It’s a busy mix of admin and supporting team members and residents,” she said.

“Helping oil the wheels that keep the village running.”

Known for her practical and honest leadership style, Michelle is a trusted sounding board for both staff and residents.

“I’m down to earth. I’m straight to the point. I don’t do nonsense,” she said.

“But I’m also empathetic, compassionate and realistic.”

Reflecting on her experience across both New Zealand and Australia, Michelle says the heart of Ryman remains unchanged.

“The core, the values, and the commitment to excellence and service is still the same.”

For Michelle, the work is simple and deeply personal — caring for people well and doing it the right way.