Growing up in Perth, Matt Hatch's earliest memories were filled with animals of all shapes and sizes. Born and raised in Western Australia, his Indigenous family traces their roots back to near Cape York in Queensland before relocating through mission networks to Derby in WA. From a young age, Matt was captivated by wildlife, especially reptiles. His inspiration came from watching Steve Irwin on television and his older sister, who frequently brought home orphaned animals to feed and raise.

That early passion for animals evolved into his dream to become a veterinarian. “I saw veterinary medicine as the pinnacle of animal care,” Matt says.

After beginning at Murdoch University in an Animal Health and Science double degree, Matt hoped to transfer into Veterinary Medicine. He achieved that goal and was accepted into the Veterinary Medicine course after his first year. Even with entry secured, he often felt unprepared for the challenges of university life.

That changed when he learned about the Waardong Enabling Program at Murdoch University. Established in 1989, Waardong is a special entry and support program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who want to study Veterinary Medicine and animal or biological science degrees. It provides academic, cultural and personal support to help students build confidence and succeed in demanding courses.

“I found university daunting. The idea of having support and people to guide me was comforting,” Matt says.

Matt was first introduced to Waardong through Dr Anne Barnes, who contacted him after he applied to Murdoch and explained how the program could help him thrive in a tertiary environment.

His early experiences were shaped by the late Mr Bob Greening, who led the program at the time. Although the cohort was small, his influence was meaningful. “I had many good chats with Bob about uni and the veterinary industry, and he always took the opportunity to impart his wisdom where he could.”

As the program grew, one person became especially important. Dr Barbara Hostalek, who leads Waardong, provided steady and genuine support. From helping Matt structure study plans to offering encouragement or even making a cup of coffee during long study days, Barb became an integral part of his journey.

“Her support, both academically and personally, has been greatly appreciated by myself and the other Waardong students.”

University is rarely a straight path. For Matt, 2020 and 2021 were particularly difficult due to personal and family challenges that affected his motivation.

“Barb has always been extremely supportive, but particularly throughout those years. She helped me stay on track and pushed me to do my best. I would not be graduating without her.”

Waardong also offered practical tools that strengthened Matt’s study habits. Having a quiet and welcoming place to work, plus connections with other students and access to academic resources.

“The transition into the veterinary course was quite smooth. Waardong really set me up for success. The support I received in planning out my study made the switch much more manageable.”

One of the biggest surprises for Matt has been the sheer diversity within the veterinary field. He has met people who have used their qualifications to travel the world or work across research, specialist surgery, wildlife care, teaching and many other areas.

“It truly is a degree that can take you wherever you want to go.”

Through the support of Waardong, Matt developed time management and study skills that he continues to rely on. These habits, he says, will guide him well into his future career.

Of all his achievements, graduating stands out as the proudest moment.

“I had quite the roller coaster ride through vet school. At times I allowed lack of discipline or personal issues to impact my study. Making it to graduation is a huge personal achievement, and it could not have been achieved without the support of Barb and Waardong.”

Murdoch University reserves up to five dedicated places per year and are assessed on their potential, passion and commitment to animal care rather than relying solely on traditional entry metrics.

More than a dozen students have completed the Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Biology, with several progressing through their clinical years to register and practice as veterinarians. These outcomes highlight the long-term impact of the program, which continues to guide Indigenous students into successful careers across veterinary medicine, animal science and research.

Matt’s background and his role models have shaped his vision for his veterinary future.

“I aim to be a diligent vet who does their best to provide the utmost care to both my patients and my clients. I want to advocate for animal rights and welfare, especially wildlife, which are often not given the respect and treatment they deserve.”

In the near future, he hopes to enter emergency veterinary care.

“I really want to be the vet who makes stressful and distressing situations easier for people. Providing the best care possible is every vet’s hope, but I want to be the vet who comforts people in their time of need.”

When reflecting on his journey, Matt is clear about who it was that made the greatest difference.

“Barbara Hostalek has probably had the biggest impact on my studies. Her ability to support both my personal and academic life, and to push me to exceed my own expectations, has been one of the major reasons for my success.”