Andy, his wife Janine, and children Katie and Robert had never travelled to Australia before but with the positive reactions from family and friends, the career opportunities, warm climate, and the relaxed Queensland lifestyle, the Lees decided to call Brisbane home.

Having applied for a position at Cardno and an initial interview arranged, Andy was sent on a reconnaissance trip by his wife and kids.

After his interview, a round of golf and a few 'cold' beers with Cardno executives during his visit, Cardno offered Andy a position he could not turn down.

Although Andy does not have formal engineering qualifications, Cardno was eager to recruit him for his considerable technical experience and expertise in hydraulic modelling and project management.

From the support given throughout his visit, Andy liked the feel of Cardno and felt the company would look after his family. Naturally this was important for the Lees if they were going to relocate to the other side of the world.

"The application process took less than eight weeks to complete. Cardno was very supportive and understanding of our needs and circumstances as a family," he said.

When asked "Why Australia?" Andy said it was all about the timing and the lifestyle.

Before moving to Australia the Lees lived a comfortable life in Brighton, with Andy and Janine both working full time, they often struggled to spend time together as a family.

In Australia, Janine no longer has to work as Andy is earning more with Cardno as a Senior Planning/Modelling Engineer. Andy and Janine now spend more time with the family enjoying the relaxed Queensland lifestyle.

Andy and Janine are very happy with the free state education system and believe it provides an exceptionally high standard of education.

The health system also provided great care when Robert broke his arm with no cost incurred for the surgery and overnight stay.

"Now that we have been here for a year, we have become comfortable with the lifestyle, the city, the people and the way of life."