“The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man's determination.” - Tommy Lasorda. Matthew was born premature at 25 weeks with Cerebral palsy and has proven himself to be a champion because of his determination and genuine hard work. He started swimming at early age to improve his health and has never looked back. Matthew has gone on to compete in four consecutive Paralympic Games where he has amassed seven medals including two gold, one silver and four bronze. He is also an ambassador for Australia Day and several organizations including Athlete Leader Swimming Australia. Matthew has been honored for his work with an Order of Australia Medal.

You have many years of experience as a financial professional. What challenges do you face in your professional life?M: I think the biggest challenge is balancing my swimming and training needs with my work life. Understanding that I am an athlete but also a working professional. I have pretty good schedule going at present whereby I train before work and train after. I get up at 4.30am train from 5-7am then go to work after then repeat in the afternoon. Pretty busy but a good working balance.

How and when did you start as a competitive swimmer? What kind of a training regime did you need to accomplish your goals?M: I started in 1999 at state championships and just progressed from there. I currently train 8-9 swimming sessions a week around 2 hours per session. 2 Gym sessions of about one hour each. Then palates for about an hour a week. Plus massage and physio fornightly. This on top of a 26-30 hour working week at Westpac.

You have faced many medical challenges from an early age. What kept you going and how did you motivate yourself to face those challenges?M: Knowing that I still have more to give and still have improvement left in me.

What is the one thing you cherish the most from your school days?M: The learning and understanding about different people and what they do.

Can you tell us about your charity work?M: I am an ambassdoar for lifes little treasures foundation which raises awareness for premature births. I also am an ambassaodor for Australiteda day. Doing charity is great to be able to give back to community and remember where things all started. Sharing my life leasons that I have learnt along the way and trying to inspire though around me.

Who is your inspiration?M: Parents

What are your other hobbies?M: Sport,travel and cooking.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who are interested in a professional career?M: Be the best you , you can be.