Board
Wenonah Lodge staff and Board are caring, responsible and dedicated and we are blessed to have such a professional and loyal team.
Our Board is genuinely passionate and driven to ensure we deliver leading aged care for all members of our community. Together they work tirelessly with our CEO’s and staff to ensure that our facility is able to continue to provide the best possible care for all of our residents, whilst being a rewarding and stable workplace for all of our valued staff.
As one of the largest employers of staff in our local area, we are also very proud of our reputation for being an employer of choice, and thrive in our ability to retain professional, experienced and qualified staff throughout the facility, some of whom have been with us for more than 21 years and one dedicated staff member even clocking up an amazing 31 years in 2026.
Wenonah Lodge (Gulgong Hostel Association Incorporated) Board
Chair:
Mr Colin Bailey
Board Members:
Dr Glenys Caterson
Ms Cathy Gaudry
Ms Linden Harper
Ms Nancy Mendez
Ms Alison Morrissey
CEO, Staff And Volunteers
Our team of dedicated and professional staff are headed up by our Co-CEOs, Jennifer Crust and Fiona Newell, Care Manager, Antonio (Tony) Murdica and Community Manager, Vivienne Saint. Together they work closely with every one of our staff, volunteers and approved contractors to maintain a facility that combines genuine care with proficiency, thoughtfulness and compassion 365 days a year.
By getting to know our residents and their family’s we are able to form a “triangle of care” and support, ensuring that all components of daily living are tailored to the various needs of each resident. Our authentic, dedicated and compassionate methods guarantees that quality of life and happiness go hand in hand, and ultimately, many outstanding bonds and relationships are forged between our staff, our residents and their families. Together we laugh, sometimes cry, and are always there to be a support for one another.
All Wenonah staff and volunteers have a Federal Police Check every three years.
Management Team
Jennifer Crust - Co Chief Executive Officer (BBus):
Has been with Wenonah Lodge & Wenonah Community Care since 2016. Jennifer emits a wealth of experience and knowledge, that derives from over 19 years of experience in aged care management and business. Evolving from a corporate career at IBM and management consulting, Jennifer moved to our region and originally served as the Business Manager at Pioneer House Aged Care from 2006 to 2015. Her warmth, expertise and dedication to our facility, people and community is widely recognised and regarded.
Fiona Newel - Co-Chief Executive Officer (BN, Cert Ed &Training, Infection Control and Immunisation):
Has been with Wenonah Lodge since 2011 and was appointed Co-Chief Executive Officer in 2024. A Registered Nurse since 1994, she holds a Bachelor of Nursing along with certifications in Education and Training, Infection Control, and Immunisation.
Fiona’s career spans both acute and aged care, having worked in major hospitals across Sydney and the Central Coast before making a tree change to the Mudgee region. Her passion for person-centred care led her to aged care leadership roles, including as Care Manager with Domain – Principal (now Opal HealthCare), and later with Wenonah Lodge. Known for her calm leadership, clinical insight, and deep commitment to residents and staff, Fiona brings a warm, hands-on approach to her role. She is passionate about supporting older Australians to live with dignity, purpose, and joy, and is proud to be part of a team that values connection, community, and care.
Antonio Murdica (Tony) - Care Manager:
Has been with Wenonah Lodge since 2024. As Care Manager, Tony is committed to delivering high-quality, holistic care to achieve the best possible outcomes for Wenonah’s residents. With a strong background in Aged Care Management and Pre-Hospital Care, Nursing and Clinical Co-ordination, Tony combines clinical expertise with leadership skills to create a supportive and efficient care environment. Extensive experience and a proven track record ensure Tony is consistently enhancing resident satisfaction and care outcomes. Tony holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Western Sydney University, along with specialised training in infection control and aged care management. Tony is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of our residents and consistently strives to uphold the highest standards of care, compassion and support to our residents and their families.
Vivienne Saint - Community Care Manager:
Holds a Certificate in Business Administration and Bookkeeping and has a diverse background in administration, having worked across government departments and local businesses. Since 2014, Vivienne has been dedicated to the aged care sector and has a wealth of experience and expertise. As of December 2024, Vivienne has been Manager of Wenonah Community, where she combines her deep knowledge of aged care and her high-level administrative skills to ensure quality support for the community.