Soloist Spotlight: Matthew Ongarato, Grange Meat Co.
Our Soloist Spotlights showcase the services our amazing Flying Solo Business Class members offer to customers in Australia, and take a peek behind the curtain of their day-to-day lives. This week, meet Matthew Ongarato, Managing Director of Grange Meat Co.!
What do you do? Who for? And how does it benefit them?
We are in the meat and farming industry. We supply restaurants, hotels and retail customers in Victoria with a wide array of the highest quality meats and smallgoods straight from our family-owned and run farm in Romsey Range.
The concept of giving back is also important to us, and we have fostered special partnerships with various community initiatives including:
- The James Marcon Youth Health Foundation to support research into mental health and empower youth affected by mental illness around Victoria.
- The Young Junior Football League.
- The Alphington Football Club.
- The Alphington Bowls Club.
When did you know you wanted to start your own business?
During my university studies, I realised that I wanted to go into the family business and make a career in the meat industry.
What’s the best thing about being a soloist? And the worst thing?
I wouldn’t classify myself as a ‘soloist’, as I have a strong network of family, friends and associates who I bounce ideas off and communicate with. I am grateful to have my father and grandfather guide me in the right direction within the industry.
Who, or what, is your biggest inspiration?
My grandfather and father are both my biggest inspiration daily. My grandfather migrated from Italy to Australia to forge a new life. He learned the butcher trade and refined his skills working for a vast range of butchers in Melbourne. Later in life, my dad yearned to immerse himself working alongside his father, mastering the skills and trade.
I am a third-generation butcher in my family and knowing I am following this tradition has been an inspiration within itself. My father and grandfather have an enduring passion for meat and passing on the family legacy and traditions.
Share your proudest moment
My proudest moment would be graduating university with a double degree and integrating this knowledge on a business level.
What would your parents say is your greatest strength? And weakness?
My parents would say that I am a perfectionist and am very critical of how and when things are done.
What inspires you most about your work?
Being able to serve Victorians with the highest quality meat, straight from our family-owned and run farm in Romsey Range.
Share the biggest challenge you face at work?
Currently, labour would be the biggest challenge for us.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned this year?
Change is inevitable, and knowing how to manage and work through the change is vital to succeed.
The best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?
Since I could remember, my father always used to say to my siblings and I: “If you love your job, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
What would be your advice to aspiring soloists?
Utilise the network that surrounds you for support, collaboration and motivation. Keep going and never stop, even if it seems too difficult.
And finally, what’s your number one way to wind down; and how would you spend a spare half-hour in the work day?
I love having a herbal tea and relaxing on the couch. At work, I sometimes grab a coffee and head into my neighbours’ factories to have a chat.
Find out more about Grange Meat Co.!
Want your turn in the spotlight?
Soloist Spotlight profiles are exclusively for selected Flying Solo Business Class members.
Already a Business Class member? Simply email us on info@flyingsolo.com.au with a link to your Flying Solo directory listing and let us know you’re keen to take part in a Soloist Spotlight – we’ll be in touch!
Not yet a Business Class member? Find out more about the best value offering in town.
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