Sandra Thomson has been the Residential Services Manager at Alexandra Gardens since 2006.
A Yeppoon local, she began her career at Rockhampton Hospital as a Registered Nurse and then a midwife. She is qualified and highly experienced in both nursing administration and health administration and management, and transitioned into aged care in 2006. She loved working in this industry so much, she hasn’t looked back since.
What do you love most about managing Alexandra Gardens?
Managing Alexandra Gardens has been the most rewarding experience of my entire career. It’s so special to be making a difference to the lives of others using the collective wisdom of the residents, their families, carers, nurses and support staff. It’s a privilege to provide support and assistance to residents, and to lead and motivate my team.
What do you think makes this community so special?
The residents and their families, and of course, the staff! We are blessed to have a wonderfully caring, welcoming and home-like community where each resident is supported, respected and treated with dignity. Our team works together to put residents first, taking the time to get to know what makes each person unique.
Why do you think Alexandra Gardens feels like home?
Our community is divided into smaller households that are interlinked by walkways and surrounded by gardens and outdoor seating areas. We focus on making the households as homely as possible, with lots of opportunities for residents to enjoy the simple things they always loved doing in their own homes.
Fun Facts
Favourite pastime: Walking on the beach and gardening
Favourite food: Cheese (with or without wine)
Reading or tv: Reading. My favourite author is Jeffrey Archer.
What are you scared of: Cane toads – I run a mile when I see one!
If you could travel anywhere: Norway to see the Northern Lights
Favourite childhood memory: Summer holidays with my family on Great Keppel Island