The Story of Susie Shimmin
Some people play it safe. Susie Shimmin has never been one of them.
From the film sets of 1960s Sydney to the wild frontier of Montana, from Hollywood legends to a Green Card lottery win, Susie’s life has defied every expectation. Today, she calls Lake Cathie Manor home – and she would not have it any other way.
Think Big: A Philosophy That Shaped Everything
Susie was born in Melbourne and grew up on the North Shore of Sydney, in the harbourside suburb of Greenwich. From an early age, her father instilled in her a simple but powerful belief.
“Think big.”
It is a philosophy she has carried through every chapter of a life that has taken her across industries, continents and decades – always forward, always with purpose.
Miss Paramount 1969
Susie’s first job was with Paramount Pictures. It was there she found both a career in the film industry and her first husband, earning the title of Miss Paramount 1969.
She and her husband moved to Melbourne, where they were closely involved in the establishment of Roadshow Distributors – one of the foundational chapters of Australian film distribution history.
During her years in the industry, Susie had encounters that most people only dream of. She met Francis Ford Coppola. She shared long, thoughtful conversations with Alfred Hitchcock. She spent time with Vincent Price.
For a young woman from Greenwich, it was a remarkable world to be part of.
From Film to Advertising – and a Famous Author
After the film industry, Susie transitioned into advertising, learning the craft of producing television commercials in Melbourne before returning to Sydney to continue her work.
It was back in Sydney that she met Colleen McCullough, the celebrated author of The Thorn Birds – yet another memorable chapter in a life full of them.
London, Merrijig and the Australian Bicentenary
Still single and restless for new experiences, Susie made the move to the United Kingdom – London and the Costa del Sol – for a year. Australians were in demand for their work ethic, and she found no shortage of opportunity.
But the pull of home eventually won out, and she returned to Australia.
Even then, she did not stay in the city for long. Seeking a change of pace, she moved regionally to Merrijig in Victoria’s high country, where she ran her own marketing consultancy.
Her standout campaign from this period? Managing the direct marketing for the Australian Bicentenary in 1988. In the middle of that project, she met her second husband and welcomed her son Bill – her Bicentenary baby.
Five Stars, a Diploma and a Door to America
Another chapter, another pivot. Susie found herself drawn into five-star hospitality, working in customer service and completing her Diploma at the age of 60.
Then America happened.
A close friend invited her for a visit. Susie went. And then, almost impossibly, she won the American Green Card Lottery – and stayed for 12 years.
In 2023, she became an American citizen.
Her proudest achievement during those years was serving as General Manager of the Yellowstone Hot Springs in Montana, situated on the north gate of the famous Yellowstone National Park.
“Living on the doorstep of that national park was simply beautiful,” she reflects. “Even now, I appreciate how blessed I was to live there.”
Coming Home to Lake Cathie Manor
In 2023, Susie suffered a stroke. After her recovery, she returned to Australia in 2025 – and landed at Lake Cathie Manor.
“It was like I had an angel on my shoulder to be so lucky to land at this home straight off the plane,” she says.
Today, Susie is settling into life at the Manor, making new friends and enjoying the warm, light-filled environment that has quickly become home.
Her father’s words still ring true. You can do anything in life that you put your mind and energy to.
A Life in Colour
Susie describes her journey as “a rainbow life, in a coat of many colours.” She attributes much of her success to a deep personal faith that has never steered her wrong.
And her advice to anyone navigating life’s twists and turns?
“Be kind and caring to others. Never give up and never give in.”
Every resident at Lake Cathie Manor carries a lifetime of stories. Susie’s simply happens to include Hollywood icons, a Green Card lottery and twelve years in Big Sky country.
Discover Lake Cathie Manor
If you are exploring aged care options for yourself or a loved one, visiting a home in person can make all the difference.
At Lake Cathie Manor, families find more than care. They find a welcoming community, compassionate staff and the reassurance that their loved ones are supported every day.
Book a tour today to experience Lake Cathie Manor for yourself.