Meet Matty: One Of Our Expert Backcountry Guides

Everyone, meet Matty – an adventure sports photographer turned alpine guide whose love for the mountains has shaped both his career and lifestyle.

What began in 2021 as a dream to live among the peaks quickly grew into a passion for backcountry touring, sparked by a guiding course recommended by a friend. Since then, Matty has traded lenses for ski boots, helping others experience the raw beauty of Thredbo’s alpine terrain. With qualifications in guiding, avalanche safety and wilderness first aid, he’s dedicated to creating safe, fun and unforgettable backcountry adventures, and inspiring others to push their own boundaries along the way.

How did you get into guiding and what skills have you developed?

My first season was during Covid and I was fortunate enough to join some free guiding courses through a training organization. Subsequent seasons were spent shooting backcountry projects with heaps of friends and guides and growing my own personal skills. After that it was an easy sidestep into guiding, which is great because it gives me a break from shooting but allows me to still do what I love: spending time in the backcountry with friends!

One skill I think I’ve developed is allowing people the space to safely push their own personal boundaries – whatever they may be – and always ending a day feeling challenged yet rewarded.

What’s your favourite thing about guiding in Thredbo’s backcountry?

I love being able to show what makes our alpine so unique and share even a small part of the positive impact that the Aussie Backcountry has had on my life!

What kind of terrain can people expect to explore on a Thredbo Backcountry Tour?

Depending on what you’ve booked, you can expect technical terrain, mellow turns or just beautiful snow gums. We are lucky that we have such a variety of terrain within short distances of the chairlift and can tailor the experience to suit your ability and conditions.

What’s one thing people are always surprised to learn on a backcountry tour?

We have avalanches in Australia! People are always surprised to learn that whilst rare, they do happen and it’s something we need to be aware of.

What makes backcountry skiing or riding different to a resort day?

Without fail, people always talk about the silence and natural beauty of our alpine landscapes – and how much more they enjoy each run knowing they’ve worked their asses off for it.

Favourite snack to pack in your bag for a big day out?

Nuts. Whether it’s a nut bar, peanut butter crackers or just a bag of straight roasted, I never leave the resort without at least one form of nut.

Fun fact about you?

 I am a professional ski photographer by trade, so of all the guides I’ll take the best pictures and videos to remember your epic day. Guaranteed!