Elphin Lodge Complex’s receptionist turns 80

Ms Auriel Wittert is a receptionist whose professionalism strikes the right chord with visitors to Elphin Lodge Complex.

She is well groomed, bright eyed, attentive and beautifully spoken. She also turned 80 on April 19.

Ms Wittert is among a new breed of people who might be senior citizens according to traditionally accepted definitions, but who certainly are not elderly. Working a demanding, busy, full day, she said what she most loves about her job is interacting with people.

Once a resident herself of Elphin Lodge retirement village, she was working in Linbro Park and found the commute to work too tedious during the Gautrain’s construction.

“It took one and a half hours to drive 12km,” she said.

With her late husband then being cared for at Ron Smith Care Centre on the grounds of Elphin Lodge, getting home in time to visit him was becoming increasingly difficult. Then a snippet in the village’s weekly bulletin caught her eye. An assistant was sought to work in the village shop.

She applied but did not get the job. What she was offered instead, was a part-time receptionist position.

“We felt that Ms Wittert would be better utilised at our reception and that has proved true. She is efficient and feisty. She is a most presentable lady who firmly manages the reception with colleague Ms Tanya Switala. Ms Wittert is an asset to our village,” said Ms Helen Petrie, Elphin Lodge Complex manager.

Ms Wittert started working as a part-time receptionist in 2009. When the full-time receptionist retired five years ago, Ms Wittert was promoted and started working a full day.

“I will be here as long as I can keep going,” said Ms Wittert.