Julie Pentek
Hi Julie, can you tell us a little about your background and your connection to Port Macquarie?
I’m a born-and-bred Port Macquarie local – my family’s farming history in the region going back to the 1850s. Growing up, my parents were always busy with property and real estate, so it wasn’t long before I caught the bug too. I went on to manage a local real estate agency for about 10 years, then decided to mix things up with a big adventure and moved to Copenhagen for 5 years, which was an amazing base for travel. Eventually, Port called me back home in 2004, and I’ve been here ever since.
You’re now about to launch a new business here in Port Macquarie. What inspired you to take the leap and what’s your vision?
It really came down to seeing a need for a truly local, people-first approach in our community. That’s how The Strata People was born. Our vision is all about keeping things approachable, open and easy to understand. Between us, our team has 75 years of experience and we’re so passionate about finding the right balance between people and properties that make Port such a wonderful place to live.
The leap into starting a new business is a big one. What’s been the most exciting (or nerve-wracking!) part of the process so far?
Honestly, we’ve been excited the whole way through. Getting creative with our branding, colours and logo was a highlight – it gave us a chance to flex a different side of ourselves and have a bit of fun with the process.
What do you love most about living and working in the Port Macquarie community?
It has to be the people. Port might not be huge, but the sense of community is massive. Over the years, I’ve built so many great friendships and connections, and there’s just something really special about the way people look out for each other here.
When you’re not working, where might we find you relaxing or catching up with friends? (we hear Little Shack is a bit of a favourite!)
Guilty! I do love Little Shack – you just can’t beat that view, and their spicy margarita is a bit of a go-to. I also love walking along the beach with friends and more recently I’ve been getting into caravanning, which has been such a fun way to unwind.
Finally, what’s next for you and your new business? What can the Port Macquarie community look forward to seeing from you in the months ahead?
We’re really looking forward to our launch and information night later this month – it’ll be a chance for people to meet us, learn more about the business, and get to know our amazing team. I just feel really grateful to be starting this new chapter here at home, surrounded by such a supportive community.
