Thank you, Lee and Lesley
At Greenways, we’ve always prided ourselves on being more than just a village. We’re a community built on connection, care and a shared commitment to making life better for everyone who calls this place home. And that’s only possible because of the incredible people who work here.
Few have contributed more to that spirit than Lesley Hemingway and Lee Monkhouse.
After 15 remarkable years of service, Lee and Lesley recently celebrated their well-earned retirements — and what a celebration it was! More than 90 residents, staff and directors gathered to thank them, honour them, and wish them every happiness as they begin this next chapter.
It was a day filled with mixed emotions. Sadness at saying goodbye to two much-loved members of the Greenways team — but overwhelming joy in celebrating everything they’ve achieved and contributed. And above all, excitement for the adventures and relaxation ahead.
To Lee – Thank You
Lee joined Greenways in 2010 as an administrative assistant — and quickly became the heartbeat of our day-to-day operations. From helping the team, supporting residents, organising activities or managing financials, she did it all — with grace, warmth, and a bigsmile.
Lee’s talents run deep. She’s legendary for her computer game high scores, her ‘Vegemite Song’ performance at Greenways Got Talent, and for always being first at Happy Hour on Fridays (even if it’s only a short walk from the desk!). But what truly defines Lee is her unwavering dedication to residents.
Whether the challenge was big or small, she was always there to help — with kindness, patience, and a commitment to putting others first. For so many, Lee has been the face of Greenways — the calm, reassuring presence who made each day a little better.
And while her time behind the desk may be over, we’re absolutely delighted that Lee isn’t going far — she’s chosen to stay right here and make Greenways her home.
To Lesley – Thank You
Also joining us in 2010, Lesley brought with her a calm, compassionate presence shaped by her background in nursing. She made an instant impression. In 2013, she was appointed Village Manager — and for nearly a decade, she led Greenways with extraordinary care, strength and heart.
Her leadership was formally recognised in 2017 when she was named a finalist for Village Manager of the Year at the national Retirement Village Industry Awards. That same year, she received a 100% satisfaction rating from residents in our village survey — a truly remarkable feat.
But the real measure of Lesley’s impact comes not from awards, but from the people she served. As residents wrote:
“Lesley is much loved by residents. Many are drawn to the village by her caring, fun-loving, committed and personable nature. She’s a very special person — one of a kind. Her care and support for residents is unmatched. We just love having her at Greenways.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Lesley, your legacy will live on in the warmth, culture and community you helped shape. Your dedication, your leadership, and your heart have left an indelible mark on Greenways — and we thank you from the bottom of ours.
With Gratitude
To Lee and Lesley — thank you. You’ve both made Greenways not just a great place to work or live, but a place to truly belong. We are so grateful for all you’ve given.
Here’s to your next chapter — may it be full of happiness and well-deserved rest.
With love and appreciation
All of us at Greenways
