Chef Matt Golinski’s extraordinary recovery | Australian Story

Chef Matt Golinski lost his wife and three daughters in a Boxing Day house fire which left him horrifically burnt. Now, nearly seven years on, Matt opens up for the first time on television about how rebuilt himself and his second chance at life.
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Putting the "real" back into reality television, Australian Story is an award-winning documentary series with no narrator and no agendas - just authentic stories told entirely in people's own words. Take 30 minutes to immerse yourself in the life of an extraordinary Australian. They're sometimes high profile, sometimes controversial, but always compelling. It’s television guaranteed to make you think and feel. New episodes are available every Monday.

[@TheMsChrisie]

What a story. I'm over here complaining over nothing, yet there's so much to be greatful and to look forward to.

[@phyllismagunde5844]

I was really touched by Rachael's mother's words, wishing the best for him and even encouraging Matt to remarry and move on with life. How nice!!!!

[@ccisme6373]

I remember this and how the whole of Australia was in shock, it seemed he might not make it, but he did pull through, then everything went quiet. I've often thought and wondered how he was going over the years, especially when watching cooking shows, it's lovely and very emotional watching this and to know Matt is back on the mend and has found love again and that they have a beautiful little girl, such a blessing for Matt and so richly deserving of happiness after everything he's been through. It's obvously a blessing and a relief to his families on both sides as they've been through so much too, loving thoughts to Matt's mum-in-law who lost her daughter and three granddaughters, I just can't begin to comprehend all that they've been through. Blessings that they both have another little one to fill his heart. 💞💕

[@shirleyscott8879]

At first I thought this was just about him surviving as a burn victim. When I found out he lost his entire family, I was heartbroken. So happy he found love again and a new family.

[@user4488]

This gentleman was so deserving of a second chance to find love again. God bless this family.

[@Toffee146]

God bless??? How can you say that? He was really 'blessed', losing his children and wife in a fire, wasn't he??? 😡 Religious people really need to take a long, hard look at themselves, and why they believe in something that doesn't exist. Shame on you. 😡

[@Grammichal]

@@Toffee146 From where did you get sense of right & wrong? ✌🏽

[@sunshinecoastrealestatepho9970]

Best Australian story ever. Beautifully done and the heavens aligned for him to meet his wife and have a baby. Rachael and the girls are together and smiling down on him.

[@blacksheep9772]

Not many comments about Matts Dad. I suspect Matt got his great attitude from his father, and his father is clearly a very strong and wise man. Good on you Dad! You did one hell of a job. ❤

[@cindyvining7866]

Matt's Dad is an amazing man.

[@dorothyawo9086]

I can't imagine the loss & the deep pain of losing his wife, & 3 children. Not to mention his home & everything in it. And then his severe burns. What an amazing spirit he has. God bless him & his new family.

[@brendarawlins9417]

Both sets of parents are just beautiful and I'm glad they are included in his life. His wife's mother is lovely.

[@kellylenehan3362]

It sure does put your own life into perspective doesn’t it. I am feeling sooo super grateful right now for all that I have in my life. The loss that he suffered is beyond what I can comprehend. All I can do is weep watching this and be thankful for my blessings.

[@shirleyscott8879]

I just can’t imagine. What a strong man. Happy he has his dad to help him

[@MaRta-py7mb]

What a dad Keith Golinski is!

[@madasahatter5514]

I'm from the UK and I'd never heard of Matt or his tragic story. I'm so glad I watched this. It's so very sad but so very beautiful also. You did a masterful job of telling it. My best wishes to Matt and his wonderful family.

[@keztukariri]

I had just moved to Oz when this happened. This is the first really inspiring thing id ever heard of. To wake up and have lost all of your loves, and to bounce back as quick as you did was truly incredible Matt. Kia Kaha brother, much love from NZ❤

[@rachellereeve494]

Thanks for sharing Matt's story. I've wondered over the years how he was faring after the fire. I am so pleased he has found joy. I wish him and his family the very best.

[@juliecasey5196]

Such a sad and beautiful story. I wish everyone long and happy lives.

[@mollyfenn3057]

Heartbreaking, Matt is amazing, Recovering from trauma is a choice Matt proves this everyday he chooses to face his new life.

[@ummamir8265]

I lived in the house directly infront of his family, I remember his wife and little girls giggles so clearly. I had moved out before this happened but it affected my mother and sister a lot. I'll never forget the way my heart dropped when I heard the news 💔

[@Chique867]

What a sad and tragic story. Matt was so strong and brave after what he suffered. His wife was sure to have a hand in guiding him to find new love. And the fact he was miraculously able to have a little girl is so amazing. A miracle child. Shows whatever you go through in life, there is always a second chance to rebuild. So glad he had a chance at finding someone new. Although he will never forget his former wife and kids they will be watching him from Heaven.

[@povilasbanaitis9875]

Wow… I came to Australia in 2013 & hadn’t heard this story. Naturally it is as you say a horrible trauma for anyone hearing this .However, I can’t tell you how proud I am to call myself an Aussie when I see the spirit of this wonderful place in you Matt. With Thoughts for the beautiful family you lost , I am so so happy to see you have found happiness in this life again.I honestly don’t know if I would have your courage.Bless you Erin & Aluna. .As a story , seeing it for the first time , you are an inspiration of the highest calibre and I thank you for sharing your story. It’s my belief The Universe directs people like you and your 4 girls watching from above to motivate humanity. Your a gem. ❤️❤️❤️❤️💕💕💕Paul &Lexi Adelaide

[@Loveume]

This is the Most Beautiful Story! Made Me Cry!

[@alainstasse4602]

Every now and then you come across a story revealing just how courageous some men can be. This is one such courageous man. A credit to his Dad. Looking forward to meeting and having a feed provided by such a hero.

[@momofschnauzers]

Can't even begin to imagine the absolute heart break of losing an entire family. Most humans need love to survive and it makes my heart happy to know that he did find love again. He has such a pure soul.

[@shaughnwright7499]

hard to let myself cry as a bloke. but this breaks my heart as a father.

[@krfl9871]

His dad seems like a lovely, and very articulate, man too.

[@andreabarnfather8972]

This man is a testament to endurance - he pushed through both emotional and physical pain. I wish him the best of luck on his journey moving forward

[@gobbledygoook]

There is something l don't understand. He says they all went to bed and that was the last time he saw them. The neighbor said he saw him after the explosion outside, trying to get in to save his family. So how did he get out of bed while everyone was sleeping without getting everyone else out or at least awake? Why did he get out and then tried going in? It doesn't make sense. How did he wake up and how did he get out? This documentary should have made things clearer whitout any room for doubts

[@nono-fb8tr]

he literally has memory loss dude how do you expect them to answer that? He probably got his family up and they were behind him and then when he turned around he couldn't get them. It's not that hard to reason out.

[@gooding1044]

@@nono-fb8tr Neither is murder.

[@earthalydelights]

@@gooding1044 Wtf?

[@getyaboogieon]

Not nearly enough comment on the fact that the type of fire alarms he had just didn't trigger. They should be banned outright in favour of photoelectric devices.

[@TheTonialadd]

How did I know that he was going to end up with his therapist? 😂. I’m very happy for them both. Love conquers all.

[@gobbledygoook]

Yep, I had the same feeling.. The 2 woven even resemble a bit

[@LucyLu1965]

😉😄when she first spoked I thought yeap they together watch. Behold🤣.it was the way she smiled her face gave her away💞..is a powerful LOVE STORY in every ways. May his Daughters & their MoM RIP. 🦢 🐣🐤🐥

[@carltongirl95]

Thankyou for this story on Matt I've often wondered how he'd be able to move past that fire and the loss of his family...I'm so glad to hear he's found love again and now he has a little girl as well...I'm also really happy he and his father have gotten to really know one another as adult to adult 🙂

[@elizabethhutson9767]

So happy for this new little family. His other children are his little Angel's now.♥️

[@philipcoleman8184]

We lost two.children in a nine month period, aged 17 and 22. Nothing takes the pain away. I lost my spiritual beliefs but through the help of other and a Bereavement counsellor, she guided me and later asked do you ever feel things I smiled gently. “Do you ever feel like there is just a thin veil separating you”? She said, i replied “yes”’. We then explored my feelings and emotions and I realised that we had opened up a doorway. I feel them, their presence and emotions. They are together but yet still with me. To others this must sound absurd but one needs to allow ones self to be there, during times meditation and to allow them in. We grieve in pain but be there, they are still with you. Thank you for expressing the depth of your loss and don’t be afraid to express your devotion, your memories will not fade!

[@vickimarlene4905]

How awful for the families. He would have suffered so much still being alive when he’d lost his whole family. How very sad. To have to bury your wife and all your children is incomprehensible. He’s very strong. So very happy he’s got a new family.

[@Nolanoyayo]

This man is so special. I want to just give him a big hug.

[@spacewitchvulcan]

What a remarkable example of a man. And family too. Wow...

[@brookem1559]

And there I go - 😭 I am so so happy for you Matt. I've never said this about anyone but you are a true inspiration.

[@aussiecarol]

To see Matt Golinski living life again, having a lovely partner and a lovely little girl is just marvellous after such a hideous tragedy. Thank you for letting Australia see a snippet of this man's harrowing journey and all the very best to him and his family for a beautiful future.

[@eej902]

Thanks for letting America see it, too, hehe

[@lindaj171]

Thanks for letting the whole world see it. ❤️ from 🇨🇦

[@lindadavies6109]

And South Africa 👋🇿🇦

[@caitlinroy8678]

And England

[@patmebg3794]

Nigeria

[@jillbecker8651]

Congratulations Matt! It’s so nice to see you happy again with your new family,, Best of wishes..😷💕🧵

[@georgiehollander2199]

I am SOOOOOO happy he has found happiness again and has had more little tykes.............Congratulations !!!!

[@oceanwaves8619]

I used to watch Matt on Ready Steady Cook; hearing of his loss was horrible, to see him now is wonderful; what a strong graceful, inspiring,good man he is💖

[@sharonharding3478]

He has two families now. The first are angels looking after his new family now. What an amazing story. ❤️❤️❤️💖💖😇😇😇😇

[@krissy8045]

I think it was so special that his mother in-law gave him her blessing to date, marry and have children! I hope in some way that she's included abit into his new family, i have a feeling she is…………! It proves that healing is possible after the worst nightmares!

[@corneliawissing7950]

No, it doesn't work like that. There's always a hole in one's life. One simply learns to navigate around it. But care & being careful around the hole do not exclude other people and do not mean 'healing'.

[@spikenz2]

Yes very special lady

[@MshAhmxiO1]

A true life testimony of "Never Give Up". Thank you Matt for sharing your story (heartbreaking & inspiring)

[@cynthiawilson5066]

Matt so sorry about what happened to your family and yourself but you are such a inspiration so happy for you and Erin GOD BLESS YOU BOTH

[@darlenehoward2340]

This man's story touched my soul. I'm so glad to know that he didn't give up & found love again. And their little girl is an extra special blessing.

[@madcatladyshirl6899]

Matt has a beautiful soul and what a wonderful story. I wish you guys all the luck in the world. X

[@sandischmidt5028]

Matt got a second chance of life and fr that, he can thank God. I’m so happy that he found a new wife and was able to have at least one more daughter. Matt, you are an inspiration to many!

[@carriecoronado3028]

I'm so sorry for his loss but I'm also very happy for him with his new family❤

[@roviannematovu8136]

What a beautiful man What strength of character. Total respect & admiration

[@alwer1789]

What a wonderful ending to a truly tragic story 💕

[@trixiet9747]

Wow. What an incredible story of hope. Everyone goes through difficult times and this is an inspiration to keep moving forward, don't give up and keep a good attitude.

[@10Keswick1]

A truly inspirational man, all good wishes to him and his beautiful family.

[@jinjarogers1711]

Amazing strength. I can honestly say i doubt i could summon anywhere near what it took this man to stay around and fight after losing his family. Xo

[@gypsytreasures3856]

What a beautiful human he is

[@pinksleaze]

Honestly one of the hardest things I’ve ever watched.

[@luana1600]

What a sad, yet amazingly beautiful life story. I wish all the best things in life to him and all of his lovely family and friends! Happiness and love to all.

[@sharonmurray2357]

Such a beautiful ending to such a tragic story. Thanks!

[@ineseburgess937]

Beautifully handled... thank you for this wonderful story

[@spacewitchvulcan]

To experience such profound loss and survive that is incredible. Just inspiring!

[@GothicaBeauty]

Both Matt & Turia Pitt are inspirations to us all.

[@lynx6124]

This story is a perfect example of how happiness can come out of tragedy. God definitely had his hand in this one. So refreshing to see good stories like this instead of the violent ones. God Bless Matt and his family!!

[@sazziestar202]

He honours his wife and children by living onwards and not letting the overwhelming loss and sadness that he must feel dictate his going forwards, I respect that strength and he is an inspiration as to are her other close family in the way they talk most beautifully about them. 🌹❤️🙏.

[@eej902]

I've seen this before, nice outcome. Not everyone is as lucky after tragedy. Goes to show the strength of support and love. Live with care, empathy, compassion, kindness. Kindness doesn't cost a thing, it's free, but very, very valuable.

[@DivyaJoan]

What an amazing story of resilience and strength.

[@catarinaquick8344]

Amazing! Gets me inspired to go get my self better.

[@Elfie0100]

Chef Matt is very lucky to have family and friends as shown in this documentary. It also shows that he is a great guy in rebuilding his life. Stay safe and take care!❤

[@stephielulu9096]

What a strong and inspirational man

[@davidcattin7006]

This man's strength and recovery are inspirational, to say the least. He couldn't be any more deserving of his wonderful new life! Best wishes from Indiana, USA!

[@dawnleary6487]

What an amazing man, i remember this fire, & when it happened, i cried so hard for this man & the family he lost.i am so glad things have turned out the way they have for him & his new family. Things happen for a reason, what that reason is in Matts case, who knows? But i wish them forever happiness.

[@camban]

I always liked Matt, news of the fire made me quite sad, and I’m grateful now that he has shared his story with us.

[@lesperonis1146]

What a Brave brave person to have gone through all this trauma, Yes you deserve another chance at a wonderful life mate, I am sure you will enjoy every minute of this new life 👏

[@zninz5368]

From the start you have shown me great strength, such a loss, my heart ached listening what beautiful wife and kids you had, Blessings in the years to come Matt & family I also love that Aussies come together and give in times of need.❤

[@gilliangordon7774]

How tragic, but beautiful as well ..... what a beautiful family, past and present.

[@joyleenpoortier7496]

This made me cry, from so much horror in his life to a beautiful happy new begining God bless you all.

[@downunderthunder2538]

I would of given up! What a great man Australian of the decade for me !

[@cathybassett6432]

A wonderful beautiful story. Thank you.

[@michellesmith3516]

I super happy for Matt! I know it’s been 2 years according to my you tube channel but I’m just happy he recovered and found love again❤️❤️❤️🥰😘😘😘😘

[@Rubydoo22597]

I watched this with tears streaming down my face, I'm so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughters & their amazing mother & wife 💔 I pray God brings you a peaceful & happy future 🙏 ❤️ you deserve happiness too 🙏 ❤️

[@robertadamcewicz314]

Matt you are a wonderful role model, thank you for sharing ❤️❤️

[@maryreynolds6058]

May God continue to Bless Matt & his family

[@sandramckay6784]

What a beautiful and emotional story.

[@rhondamartin1251]

This is a man who lost everything, but found away to push himself to climb up that difficult mountain and he made it to the top. He covered physically & mentally and through all that he found love again. He is a remarkable man!

[@user-re7eu9hq6r]

What a beautiful man! Sorry for you loss! This will help those that have lost, I can’t imagine! ❤️I think Rachel orchestrated this beautiful union! 😭🥰🙏this is so beautiful! Truly inspirational!

[@daniellefleetwood1765]

Inspirational ! Makes our everyday woes look pretty insignificant. Wish them only the best

[@luana1600]

Danielle Fleetwood...you said that perfectly. 💚💜

[@suewills7099]

I m so glad you had your dad Matt god bless you and your family may they Rest In Peace and I’m so glad you’ve met someone who is beautiful like you.your beautiful little girl is gorgeous Love 💓 and happiness to you all.

[@nancybeveridgetaylor3256]

I was unable to have children, these stories always make me full of joy!! ❤🤗🥰🤗❤🤗🥰🤗❤🌺🌺

[@Mm4riii]

I cried like a baby throughout pretty much half of the video

[@luana1600]

Right there with you...😪

[@mayenglish4572]

What a lovely story. God Bless you Matt, and more daughters to come!

[@Nikita-jo4cl]

Tears the whole way through but finishing on happy tears for the life he’s been able to reclaim

[@eleonorelemonnier9277]

Wahou ! What a moving story, such a strong and clever man, with heaps of resilience. You moved me to the bottom of my heart. Next time I feel low and discouraged, I have to watch this video again.

[@Youtuber_user13]

Just remember all the good memories and all the laughters you had together .. that will ease the pain a little bit.

[@annevans8953]

Chef. You are a beautiful man. Thank you for this story.

[@brenda0823_]

What a sad but beautiful story! Good for both of them!!

[@KlaraMoody]

A very,very moving life Documentary, depicting an horrendous ,bleak event to Matt Golinsky taking all living hope away,to a... hopeful turnaround, presenting a positive Opportunity into the future.....! Wishing you all the very Best further on.. embrace every day with your lovely family. With regards from the Wildflower State of Western Australia.🌿🌺🌿

[@mipajaro1]

Precious story. Bless this family.

[@rayklein1125]

Real courage, real valour. All the best to you sir.

[@vkauffman4881]

Having a passion helps. I wish everyone a passion. What a lovely wonderful uplifting story. Thank you.

[@shandelebroyles1099]

That's an amazing and heart warming story. ❤️

[@denisesalles7248]

An absolute tragedy. So happy he was able to find Erin and build a new life and love. And what delightful little girl they have!