Wondering what life's like at Calley Homes? Matt's been with the team just over 7 years and travelled through from Apprentice to Site Manager. With a strong work ethic and a passion for building he's now supporting others through their apprenticeships as well as building stunning architectural homes.
Use five words to describe yourself?
During serious times I try to lighten the mood with humour but I can also be serious when needed. I’m sporty and love rugby. I really enjoy my downtime with a cold beer in hand.
How long have you been with Calley Homes?
7 years now! Why did you decide to work in the building industry?
I looked at a sporting course coming out of high school but there were a few hundred other students doing the same and work opportunities were limited. I then decided to do some work experience in building and really enjoyed the outdoors and working with my hands.
What do you love about what you do?
Being able to sit back at the end of a project and seeing the completed result of something you have crafted with your hands. I get a really strong sense of pride knowing you have built a beautiful home from the ground up for people to live in.
What has been your highlight since joining Calley Homes?
The Harrison’s job on Grace Road when I was a third year apprentice. It won a national award at house of the year (Supreme Renovation of the Year). You can’t beat that being an apprentice.
What do you think you bring to the team?
I like passing my knowledge on to the boys, I like to think I’m a good teacher.
If we asked your team mates to describe you what would they say?
I can be hard case and too serious at times haha
If you were caught singing in your work ute what tune would it be?
A bit of Linkin Park. I like to turn that up pretty loud on the way home.
What do you do to wind down from a busy week?
In summer there is nothing better than doing some work in the backyard with the peace and quiet. In winter I enjoy getting out on the rugby field and putting some shoulders in.
In your opinion what’s worth spending more on to get the best?
Put the time in with the starting stages. When you start with a good foundation and framing it makes your cladding and finishing look that much better.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
At one point I really struggled with work life balance. Someone told me that when you get in your ute at the end of the day, you need to leave work at work and give your attention and focus to your family. I have taught myself to do that and have much better balance.
What do you love about the Calley homes team? We started off with a young crew and we’ve formed a strong bond. I also had a good crew of older guys who have now moved on but kudos to them for everything they taught me. Johnny and Michelle run a really good ship, they like to keep the social aspect too which is cool.
What advice would you give to someone looking to get into building as a career? Go out and do a 3 month trial first, building isn’t for everyone.
