For Meagan Spicer, stepping into the Village Manager role at Weary Dunlop felt like a natural progression, shaped by the experiences and relationships that have led her here.
Meagan Spicer was born in Melbourne but grew up in Birchip, a tiny Victorian town of about 700 people. With not many kids around, she naturally spent time with older members of the community, and formed connections that have stuck with her ever since.
After completing her education, Spicer began her career in customer service before going on to study human resources.
“I’ve always loved people and had a desire to support others,” she said.
Her entry into aged care and retirement living wasn’t planned, but it followed a life-altering moment that changed her perspective entirely.
“I was on a crowded train when suddenly I needed to help bring someone back to life,” said Spicer.
“It made me realise how short and precious life is, and I wanted to do something meaningful with mine.”
While considering her career options one day, Spicer went for a run and happened to pass Ryman’s John Flynn Village.
“I thought it would have been an amazing place for my grandma to live if she were still alive,” she said.
Then, as if by fate, her opportunity came knocking.
“It was incredible, then I saw a job come up at John Flynn and thought, ‘I could do this. I want to do this, and I want to give it a crack.’”
So, in 2021, she joined Ryman at John Flynn Village as a Resident Services Manager, where she discovered both a passion for the work and inspiration in the people around her.
From there, her career progressed to Nellie Melba Village, Ryman’s largest village in Australia, where she also served as Resident Services Manager.
“I’ve had the chance to help open a village from the ground up and then manage one with more residents than the town I grew up in!”
Over the years, Spicer said she has learned just how much wisdom residents themselves can offer.
“Tapping into the resources around you is important. Learn from the residents and team members around you and approach things with curiosity. If you want to learn, experience something different, or take the next step in your career, it’s important to have those conversations with your manager.”
Spicer also highlighted the support she received from leaders throughout her Ryman journey.
“Ask your leaders for advice and guidance; they’ll encourage you to throw your hat in the ring. If you’ve got the right attitude, use your initiative, and are willing to seek out opportunities, they’re there for you. There will always be someone to guide you with kindness and consideration; you just need to put yourself out there.”
In 2025, Spicer became Village Manager at Weary Dunlop, Ryman’s first Australian village, where she continued to grow professionally and personally.
“I’ve learned that you need to be organised,” she laughs.
“It’s important to stay organised and communicate clearly with accurate information, especially when you need to have tough conversations.”
Spicer believes that leadership built on calmness, fairness, and trustworthiness, allows her to best support her team and foster their growth.
But her main goal as Village Manager is simple:
“I want every resident, visitor, and staff member to feel like they belong here.”
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