Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards Winners Profile
Business of the Year and Outstanding Visitor Experience
Matt Hall Racing is more than just an aviation business, it’s a story of passion, precision, and pushing boundaries. Founded by former RAAF fighter pilot and Red Bull Air Race world champion Matt Hall, the company has grown from a personal dream into an internationally celebrated enterprise that thrills, inspires, and connects with people across Australia and the world.
It all began in 2005 when Matt brought his Giles 202 aircraft back to Australia from the United States. Initially, he performed at airshows to help cover ownership costs. But by 2009, Matt Hall Racing was officially launched, coinciding with Matt’s entry into the prestigious Red Bull Air Race. Since then, the business has expanded to include a home base at Lake Macquarie Airport, offering charter flights, aerobatic experiences, keynote speaking, team-building workshops, and brand ambassador roles for leading companies like Red Bull, QBE, OzRunways, Viva Energy, Skyfuel, and Quad Lock.
A Business Built on Passion and Performance
Running the business in its early days meant Matt had to juggle multiple roles, pilot, manager, and marketer. As the company grew, so did the demands, creating a cycle of expansion that continues to fuel its success.
Today, Matt Hall Racing offers a wide range of services for both individuals and businesses. From adrenaline-pumping aerobatic passenger flights over Lake Macquarie to high-impact keynote talks and corporate workshops, the team delivers unforgettable experiences. Their aircraft are top-of-the-line certified aerobatic planes, flown by elite pilots including current and former RAAF fighter pilots.
A Unique Experience in a Stunning Location
What sets Matt Hall Racing apart is a combination of location, equipment, and expertise. Lake Macquarie provides one of the most scenic and unrestricted airspaces in the world, allowing for efficient and exhilarating flight experiences. Whether you’re 12 or 90 years old (yes, even 90!), the team caters to thrill-seekers and corporate clients alike, including major brands in pharmaceuticals, mining, banking, automotive, and professional sports.
Marketing efforts include social media, email campaigns, third-party resellers, Google Ads, and outdoor media. But the most powerful driver of growth remains word of mouth, and the unforgettable sight of their aircraft soaring along the coastline.
No Two Days Are the Same
The team operates seven days a week, responding to requests for displays, keynotes, medical transport, and flight experiences. The rhythm is dictated by demand, with January offering a rare moment of calm.
Recruiting the right people, with both the skills and the attitude, has been a challenge, and work-life balance remains an ongoing struggle. Yet, the business has achieved remarkable milestones: five world championship podiums in the Red Bull Air Race, including the 2019 world title, and recognition through nominations such as Lake Macquarie Sportsperson of the Year, Lake Macquarie Ambassador, and the Sir Charles Kingsford Smith Award.
Matt Hall Racing also serves as ambassadors for Wingz for Kids, Hunter Children’s Research Foundation, Australian Air Force Cadets, Sydney Flight College, and more.
Values That Guide Every Flight
The business is built on values of respect, integrity, humility, tenacity, and compassion.
Matt fosters a positive work environment by making the job fun and rewarding. Staff enjoy perks like attending events and sharing in customer excitement. Leadership is modelled through accountability, high standards, and open communication, supported by regular team debriefs.
Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the business, with frequent donations of time and resources to charitable causes and fundraising events. “I have had a fortunate life of living my dreams, and we put a lot of effort into charity work and fundraising. We are unable to help everyone of course but we donate our time and assets to many events every year and flights to auction off money can’t buy experiences”.
Among his many memorable flights, Matt recalls taking WWII veterans, paraplegic passengers, and even blind and deaf individuals on aerobatic adventures, experiences that bring joy and tears to everyone involved.
Looking Ahead
The team is focused on scaling up flight experiences, airshows, and corporate engagements. Long-term goals include developing Lake Macquarie Airport into a modern regional hub and expanding Afterburner Australia to deliver fighter pilot-inspired corporate training.
Always Improving
Every weekend is reviewed for feedback, both positive and constructive. Continuous improvement is key, from the booking process to post-flight video delivery. Customer feedback is not just welcomed, it’s essential to the company’s growth and refinement.
Ready to experience the thrill for yourself or book a corporate event that truly takes off? Visit Matt Hall Racing to learn more and get started.
