Peter Baines of Terrigal, founder of Australian charity Hands Across the Water, is set to embark on a monumental 1,400km journey by foot across Thailand to mark the 20th anniversary of the Boxing Day tsunami while raising $1M to continue educating and empowering Thai communities.
Starting on December 1 in Yasothon and concluding on the anniversary at the tsunami memorial in Khao Lak, Baines will cover the equivalent of 33 marathons in just 26 days.
“As a former forensic specialist, I was tasked with identifying the bodies of victims in the aftermath of the tsunami,” Baines said.
“The unfathomable devastation and loss I witnessed planted the seeds of what would become Hands Across the Water, inspired by the resilience of children and families who had lost everything.”
Hands Across the Water was founded in the wake of the tsunami to provide long-term support to children left orphaned or displaced by the disaster.
It has since grown into a thriving charity supporting a range of initiatives, from education and vocational training to sustainable community development projects.
Since its inception, Hands Across the Water has raised more than $35M AUD and made a tangible difference in the lives of thousands, helping break the cycle of poverty and adversity.
The $1M fundraising goal for Baines’ journey will support programs such as a Hospitality Training Centre, Digital Learning Centre and Agricultural Learning Centre, which equip children and young adults with critical skills for brighter futures.
“This run isn’t just about me,” Baines said.
“It’s a testament to what we can achieve together – to create lasting change and build a brighter future for generations to come.”
Australians can also take part in the Run to Remember Challenge, which invites people to come together as individuals or in teams to complete 1,400km in their local area, or Hands Across the Water for the Jingle Bells Dash on December 15 at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre.
To support Peter Baines and Hands Across the Water, visit www.handsacrossthewater.org.au/event/view/run-to-remember