For UGL’s Matthew Andreatta, water has always played a big part in life — whether through elite sport or managing essential infrastructure.
Matthew’s barefooting career has taken him to the world stage. “I represented Australia at the 2022 World Masters in Texas, America, where I placed sixth in my division and scored two personal bests,” he recalls. “They have 5-metre towers to jump off in competitions in America. I’d never started my trick pass by jumping from a tower before, but I had to give it a go — and make sure to hold on tight. I made it every time. The entire experience was awesome — a lifetime opportunity and memories.”
Barefoot waterskiing, also known as “barefooting,” differs from conventional waterskiing in that the boat speed is faster and the skier is barefoot, making it one of the most challenging water sports. “It’s based on a large number of aspects, such as skill level, core strength, muscle memory, reaction times, training, weight, foot size, physics, and of course the boat speed,” Matthew explains. “There are three disciplines: slalom, tricks, and jump. Everything happens so quickly — you need strength and quick reaction times to work with the boat, which are all developed through time on the water.”
Since then, Matthew has faced setbacks, including undergoing eardrum reconstructions, with recovery resulting in two years off the water. But he’s already back training for his next event with the New South Wales Barefoot Waterski Club. “I’ve always had the hunger to keep striving for improvement in whatever I do,” he says.
That same drive shows up in his professional life. Matthew joined UGL in 2023 as an Operations and Maintenance Supervisor at the Water Reclamation and Management Scheme (WRAMS) in Sydney Olympic Park. Having worked at the plant for a decade as a subcontractor, his transition into UGL was seamless.
“I oversee the site supervision and operation of the water treatment plants, which includes operational, quality assurance, and health and safety duties such as contractor scheduling and compliance, water quality management, site safety, plant maintenance, process and efficiency improvements, breakdowns, repairs, and upgrades — all while utilising my electrical expertise,” Matthew explains. “In addition to supporting day-to-day operations, I completed my Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Water and Wastewater) after joining UGL, enhancing my ability to ensure contractual compliance while maintaining the smooth operation of all processes.”
Before UGL, Matthew followed an unconventional career path. He began as an audio engineer, touring with many iconic artists such as The Angels, Screaming Jets, Rose Tattoo, Human Nature, Richard Clapton, Lee Kernaghan, and John Williamson. As life evolved, his curiosity about electrical systems sparked a career shift, leading him to retrain as an industrial electrician. “In 2012, I undertook a mature-age apprenticeship, completing a four-year course in just three years with distinction,” he recalls.
From mixing sound on stage to keeping Sydney’s water systems flowing, Matthew has always pursued his passions with energy and commitment. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve accomplished in my life,” he reflects. “I’ve always been driven by a desire to grow both personally and professionally, and that hunger for improvement has always been my motivation.”