I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated the University of Melbourne employing Winneth Sotingco to assist me to move and settle in to Melbourne. Quite frankly, I don’t think I would have survived if I had to come to Melbourne and then look for a place to live in a country where I have little idea of how things work.

One of Winneth’s greatest strengths is his personal service without being intrusive. I first met Winneth 5 weeks before I moved to Melbourne. We had a short conversation where he took some notes and on my return to NZ I sent some photos of my apartment in Auckland. From there on he communicated with me – sending me links to properties, visiting them and sending photos or short movies.

I liked one enough to apply for it – Winneth filled in the application form and asked for documents that he knew would make my application strong. Once he secured it for me (and at the advertised price) he then went ahead to do what needed to be done before I landed in Melbourne. This included power and internet connection (I connected the night I arrived). In fact, he was ahead of me – always gently prodding me to make decisions about the next thing. I arrived in Melbourne on Saturday 30th August at 5.30pm and I was able to move straight into an apartment that was ready.

He had measured spaces, ordered and been there to receive all the new appliances (fridge, washer, dryer, microwave, toaster, kettle, vacuum all at discount prices); had sorted out beds for me to choose a new spare bed and received it, and had received linen. This personalized service meant that everyone won. Winneth worked for (and succeeded) positive outcomes for everyone – me, MGSE and himself (reputation).

He has managed to get me into my own place on the night I arrived. It feels so good to be able to hang up the (few) clothes I have and know I don’t have to shift again! It also saves the MGSE money and concern about their new staff member being concerned about things other than their work. I want to thank MGSE for this service – it was brilliant. I think Winneth’s strength is that this is what he does and you know he is working for you (the client being me & MGSE). I don’t believe a company that offers a range of services would perform as well. I can’t thank MGSE and Winneth enough – it relieved me of enormous stress.

Thank you, thank you, thank you

Liz McKinley – Professor of Education – University of Melbourne

(email written to the Dean, HR and myself)