
Excellence Recognised in Brisbane This Week
- Categories Awards, Key things to help you everyday
- Date June 18, 2026
There are few retirement village operators like LDK Seniors Living.
Greenway Views Village – General Manager Michelle Bennett, who was crowned National Village Manager of the Year at the Retirement Living Summit in Brisbane on Tuesday, has been in the role since May 2021.
She won the award with fellow state winners Tarmar Christensen, Alison Brockett, Daniel Kunzel, and John Smirk.
Michelle leads a multidisciplinary team of more than 200 staff and ensures the village, which nearly always has a society meeting being held in the main hall, is filled with joy.
She has driven a values-led culture focused on resident wellbeing, continuous improvement and operational excellence. Michelle’s leadership has delivered measurable outcomes, including improved resident satisfaction, strong team engagement and innovative service delivery, reinforcing Greenway Views as a leading example of integrated seniors living.
In addition, the 327-apartments Greenway Views was awarded the Best Redevelopment – Small Operator award.
CEO Byron Cannon said the awards highlight the organisation’s commitment to improving the ageing experience in Australia.
“These awards reflect the passion and commitment of our people, and the trust our residents place in us every day. Greenway Views demonstrates what is possible when you bring together care, lifestyle and community in a truly integrated way.
“We remain focused on redefining the ageing experience across all our villages, creating communities where people can live with dignity, connection and confidence, now and into the future.”
Ivonne Evans, who has been Sales Manager for Aveo by The Living Company since February 2022, was named National Salesperson of the Year.
“To be recognised at a national level in an industry I’m so passionate about is incredibly special, and something I’m truly grateful for.”
Ivonne won the award from state winners Michele Stevens, Danae Konstantakopoulos, Jo McPhilimey, and Katherine Clark.
“What I love most about this role is that it’s never really about sales. It’s about people. It’s about helping retirees and their families navigate a significant life transition with confidence, care, and compassion. Being trusted to play a small part in that journey is a privilege I never take for granted,” Ivonne said.
“To Kai Drescher, your guidance, support and belief in me helped shape the salesperson I am today. I genuinely wouldn’t be here without you and to everyone who has supported, mentored, encouraged, and cheered me on along the way – thank you.”
Australia's largest professional development for village and community manager and head office staff.
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