MAKING A DIFFERENCE
With a genuine affection for people and a strong caring instinct, Sharon Mcmanus plays an important role as manager of the Oak Tree Darling Heights retirement community.
Born and raised in Toowoomba, Sharon’s family has lived in the Garden City since 1944. “They say home is where the heart is and that is certainly true for me,” Sharon said. “I feel comfortable living and working here and enjoy being close to my mother Merle, my daughter Natasha and her three young boys, and my son Jamie who is based in Brisbane.” Sharon was working as a motel manager when she was asked to manage the Oak Tree retirement village in Baker Street, Toowoomba. She was responsible for selling the 57 villas in the complex and felt excited about taking over the management of Oak Tree’s Darling Heights village, located next door. “My work with Oak Tree Retirement Villages is the most rewarding I have ever done and it is fabulous to see residents blossoming while living independently in a community purpose-built to help people to age comfortably. “I enjoy assisting residents to transition into the relaxed and caring Oak Tree way of life, overseeing day-to-day operations and organising social events. It is lovely to see residents enjoying the new chapter in their lives, making friends, trying new activities and enjoying more free time.” Oak Tree Toowoomba is a relatively “young” village with the average age of residents around 70. “The people living at Oak Tree Toowoomba are part of a close-knit community. While residents respect each other’s privacy, there is a great sense of belonging along with the reassurance of maintenance-free living in a safe and secure environment. “People come to Oak Tree Toowoomba from all locations and walks of life. Some are from Sydney and Port Macquarie while others are farming folk who have moved in from the country. Residents enjoy a lot of support and enjoy the benefits of living in a village that is close to shopping centres, medical services and sporting facilities. Oak Tree is like a family and we all belong.”