Driving through Fitzroy Falls and emerging through Kangaroo Valley with its historic bridge, rolling hills and rivers, Pratima knew she wanted to call the South Coast home. 

Prats grew up in Nepal and studied Architecture. In 2018 she moved to Australia to undertake a Master of Construction Management at Deakin University in Geelong. While she loved architecture, her natural talent for numbers caused her to rethink her pathway in the industry and took a role as a Junior Estimator in a Melbourne firm. 

With 8 months left on her visa it was time to think about what was next. To obtain permanent residency she needed to find a full-time role in NSW and began applying for Estimator positions.  

She was soon presented with multiple offers and the choice between a Sydney company and Hotondo South Coast. The decision was an easy one. Prats fell in love with the natural beauty of the South Coast, her husband loves swimming at the beaches, and she loves bushwalking in the quiet stillness of nature. 

Prats also researched the two prospective companies and was impressed by how well established Hotondo South Coast is. She read about Director Adam Sturt and was eager to learn from his 20 years of experience in the industry.  

3 years into the role, Prats and her husband have obtained permanent residency, they love where they live and are happy to be growing their careers on the South Coast: 

“We are 19 weeks pregnant and have deliberately chosen to stay here and raise a family.”  

“We want our child to be able to be able to run around and enjoy the outdoors.” 

“The hustle and bustle of the city, constantly being stuck in traffic and noise does not appeal to us at all.” 

“We have both found fulfilling careers where we are learning new things every day… We are living the life we wanted,” added Prats.