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Australian Geographic Society Roadshow: Solo across the Pacific

By AG STAFF • February 13, 2024

Tom Robinson, Chrissie Goldrick and Dr Richard Barnes at the Australian Geographic Society Roadshow. Image credit: Elisabeth Marie/Australian Geographic

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A sold-out theatre at Sydney’s Cremorne Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace hosted Tom Robinson and Dr Richard Barnes last week for one of Australian Geographic Society’s Showcase Roadshow events.

Guests heard about the pair’s incredible adventures with a riveting presentation from Tom and an insightful Q&A between Richard and Australian Geographic Society’s Chair, Chrissie Goldrick.

Tom Robinson made headlines in September 2023 when he was rescued by a cruise ship after he capsized off Vanuatu. Dubbed “the naked rower” by the media, Tom had traversed the Pacific Ocean in his hand-built rowboat from Peru to the Cook Islands solo, unassisted and non-stop, before he island-hopped to Vanuatu.

Tom Robinson presenting at the Australian Geographic Society Roadshow event, Solo across the Pacific. *Image credit: Elisabeth Marie*/*Australian Geographic*

Dr Richard Barnes became the first person to kayak solo, unassisted and non-stop across the Tasman Sea in February 2023. He spent 67 days alone in his modified kayak, Blue Moon, paddling for up to 10 hours a day. Richard is also the 2023 recipient of Australian Geographic Society’s ‘Adventurer of the Year’ accolade.

Dr Richard Barnes at the Australian Geographic Society Roadshow event, Solo across the Pacific. *Image credit: Elisabeth Marie*/*Australian Geographic*

“This was our first awards roadshow since COVID and we were delighted with the turnout; a full house,” said Chrissie.

“This kind of event format allows inspiring individuals like Richard and Tom to tell their full stories, much to the delight of the audience. We plan to run similar events regularly around the country from now on.”

Watch the full evening on YouTube.

Solo across the Pacific was one of a series of live events being held around the country, featuring some of Australia’s most courageous and lauded adventurers. Hear their incredible stories firsthand and enjoy a chance to meet them and ask questions afterwards. All proceeds go to the Australian Geographic Society and its support of conservation, exploration and adventure.