About the author : Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto
Meet Rodrigo, our chief remote pilot here at Sky Perth, where he's been transforming aerial videography into captivating stories for over eight years. At the heart of Rodrigo's work lies a profound passion for both the art of flying and the art of storytelling. This combination has led his work to be featured on platforms like Netflix, Stan, AppleTV+, Paramount+, Disney+, SBS On Demand, and even internationally with ZDF in Germany.
Rodrigo's aerial videography and photography journey is a testament to his dedication to mastering this unique craft. From capturing the vast beauty of Australia's landscapes to the dynamic energy of urban life across the globe, his work offers viewers a fresh, sky-high perspective. It's not just about the technical expertise of handling a drone; for Rodrigo, every flight is an opportunity to tell a story, to reveal the unseen, and to share a new viewpoint with the world.
Renowned for his collaborative spirit and innovative approach, Rodrigo brings more than technical skills to every project at Sky Perth. Whether working on a documentary, a TV series, or a bespoke project, his focus remains on creating visuals that resonate deeply with audiences. His commitment to quality and ability to capture the heart of a story make him a skilled pilot and a storyteller of the skies.
Do you want to know more about Rodrigo? Check his website: rodmatsumoto.com
What is Hero Hunter Day?
Hero Hunter Day is a special event held annually in Perth, Western Australia.
It is organised by the Hero Hunter Foundation, which supports children and families facing tough challenges. The day brings people all over Perth together to show kindness, offer help, and share hope.
The foundation was created in honour of a young boy named Hunter, whose fight against cancer inspired a movement of compassion and community action.
His story continues to shine a light on what really matters: love, connection, and the will to support one another.
Why Hero Hunter Day Matters
This year, our team at Sky Perth was proud to take part again. Each photo we took showed not just faces, but real stories of hope, courage, and happiness.
Rodrigo Branco Matsumoto, Chief Remote Pilot at Sky Perth, said:
“Taking photos on Hero Hunter Day felt special. Each picture told a story of courage and strength. Days like this remind me why we share stories from the sky. Helping others isn’t always about money. Sometimes, the best gift we can give is our time.”
The day is a living reminder of something Viktor Frankl wrote in Man’s Search for Meaning: “Those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear with almost any ‘how.'” Events like these reconnect us with that ‘why’.
Small Acts Make a Big Difference
When you think about your free time, ask yourself: What could I do to help my community?
Even a little bit of your time can mean a lot. You could volunteer, share your skills, or just be there for someone who needs you.
Rodrigo believes everyone can make a difference:
“We sometimes forget how powerful our presence can be. Hero Hunter Day shows us clearly that every small action helps. When we come together, amazing things can happen.”
This idea reflects what Simon Sinek explores in Start with Why. The power of purpose.
People don’t just care what you do, they care why you do it. Hero Hunter Day is built on a strong ‘why’: helping others. And it shows that once you start with that purpose, the rest naturally follows. Hero Hunter Day is a perfect example of this philosophy in action.
Perth Community Coming Together
Hero Hunter Day is more than a single event. It’s a chance for everyone in Perth to come together and make a real change. It reminds us that helping others can start with a simple step.
The event is filled with warmth and community spirit. From face painting to live music and shared meals, the energy of the day wraps around everyone who attends.
Whether you’re a family showing support, a volunteer lending a hand, or someone just coming to learn, you leave with a whole heart.
The Power of Showing Up
Many people think they need to do something huge to make a difference.
But most of the time, the most powerful thing we can do is simply show up. That presence, being there with others, offering a smile, a conversation, a gesture of care, can change lives.
You don’t have to be a hero in a cape. Just being present is enough.
And when many people come together like that, it creates a wave of good that reaches far beyond the event itself.
How You Can Help
Think about your own story.
What do you want your time to say about you?
Hero Hunter Day inspires us to use our free moments to lift others. It may be time to start a new chapter in your life. One that is all about helping, giving, and being there for others.
Start small, but start now. Your community needs you, and every bit of help matters. Volunteer. Take photos. Offer a skill. Or just come along and listen. These are the building blocks of a strong, caring community.
As Rodrigo puts it:
“Stories shape how we see the world and how we act in it. Let yours be one that uplifts. One that helps. One that gives.”
Hero Hunter Day gives us that chance.
To write a better story.
Together.
