Create an experience with Matt Formston

Matt Formston is no ordinary athlete. With less than 3% vision, he’s a world champion surfer, Australian Paralympian, tandem cyclist, author, executive coach, and international keynote speaker. Diagnosed with Macular Dystrophy at age 5, Matt's journey is a testament to resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Despite his visual impairment, Matt excelled in mainstream school and thrived in sports like Rugby League, Union, and Ice Hockey. His family never uttered the word 'cannot,' focusing instead on what he could achieve. This supportive environment laid the foundation for Matt's extraordinary accomplishments.

Matt's professional prowess extends beyond the waves and tracks. As a motivational speaker and executive coach, he has inspired leaders and teams across iconic brands and businesses in Australia. His story is a powerful example of turning differences into superpowers.

A blind surfer chasing big waves, Matt's journey is so extraordinary it became the subject of an upcoming documentary. Since 2018, he has been giving back by running clinics for blind and visually impaired children, teaching them to embrace the ocean's freedom using sound, touch, and other senses.

In 2023, Matt launched the award-winning children's book, "Surfing in the Dark," in collaboration with Vision Australia. This groundbreaking book, featuring text, illustrations, and braille, is now on the Premier's reading list across all Australian states.

A global media sensation, Matt's recent achievements include winning a Guinness World Record for surfing a 55-foot wave in Nazare, Portugal, and receiving the 2023 Heavy Water Award at the Surfing Australia Awards—the first para surfer to win an able-bodied award at this level. As an ambassador for Vision Australia, Invictus Australia, and Surf Aid, Matt dedicates his time to various boards, including Chair of Para Surfing Australia and Executive Director on the Board of Blind Sports and Recreation.

Matt's adventures go beyond surfing. He is an avid big wave surfer, rec SCUBA diver, and motorcyclist, having undertaken deep-water solo dives, cross-country rides, and record-setting treks across the world’s toughest terrains. His goal is simple: savor every experience.

Matt's cycling career is equally impressive. In 2010, after cycling solo from Sydney to Melbourne, he caught the eye of the Australian tandem coach. Within weeks, he began riding with renowned cyclists, quickly making a mark in national and international events. His tandem cycling accolades include numerous national titles, a World Cup win, and a gold medal at the Track World Championships.

Matt's indomitable spirit and passion for pushing boundaries inspire everyone he meets. His professional engagements are no different. Whether in the gym, boardroom, or on the track, Matt's no-holds-barred approach pushes individuals and teams to excel beyond their perceived limits. His compelling perspective and powerful insights empower organizations to harness their potential and achieve extraordinary success.

His clientele include Commonwealth Bank, AFL, Toyota, Channel 9, Optus and more.