Together We Can: 33 Marathons in 26 Days A run to remember so we never forget

Together We Can is the inspiring story of an amazing feat. On 1st of December 2024, at the age of 58, Peter Baines set off in the extreme heat and humidity from the north of Thailand to run 1400km over 26 days, averaging 60kms per day. Peter s goal was to raise $1 million. Peter Baines had been a leading forensic investigator with the NSW Police before he was deployed to Bali in 2002 after the bombings, and then to Thailand after the Boxing Day tsunami. It was during the aftermath of the tsunami that Peter started the Hands Across the Water charity. The biggest impact upon Peter during his work in Thailand was meeting a group of Thai children orphaned by the tsunami. Returning to Australia, Baines made a commitment to support these 32 children who were living in the tent in the grounds of a Buddhist temple. The initial objective of the Hands Across the Water was to build a home for these children, and it was this first home that marked the finishing line of the Run to Remember, exactly 20 years to the day of the tsunami. During the 20-year period from 2004 to 2024, Hands Across the Water under the direction and leadership of Baines, has raised over $40 million, supporting 46 of their children through a diverse range of university degrees, and expanding operations to five entities across three countries. Together We Can is not a story of one man s 20-year commitment to children and communities in need. Nor is it simply a story of physical achievement the likes of which many simply cannot comprehend. It is the celebration of what can be achieved together. It is the celebration of the best of humanity, through what were often the most difficult times. One of the main learnings from this incredible feat of endurance (running the equivalent of 33 marathons in 26 days) was that although Peter was the only person who completed the run, it took a team to get him across the finishing line. The lessons are invaluable for businesses, organisations and sports teams and it is these lessons that remain with Peter (and hopefully the reader) long after the blisters have healed.

About the Author :
Peter Baines OA, is the Founder and Director of Hands Across the Water, a charity that has raised $40+million for tsunami affected communities in Thailand. In his earlier career, Peter was a leading forensic investigator with the NSW Police. He also spent time advising the UN Office of Drug and Crime in South-East Asia on counter terrorism and capacity building. In 2014, Baines was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his international humanitarian work. In 2016, he was awarded the Most Admirable Order of the Direkgunabhorn by the King of Thailand. Today, Baines travels nationally and internationally as one of Australia s most sought-after corporate leadership and motivational speakers. He is a natural and gifted storyteller speaking at hundreds of events per year, including in the US, Canada, Spain, France, Singapore, Thailand, Fiji, New Zealand and Malaysia. Away from his professional activities, Peter enjoys nothing more than spending time on the farm with his wife Claire (CT) and kids. He is an avid helicopter pilot and flies as often as time permits. This is Peter s fourth book.

Review :
"This inspiring book chronicles the author's incredible mental and physical journey, pushing beyond limits to raise funds and awareness for an incredibly worthy cause. It's a powerful reminder of how determination and purpose can turn personal struggle into meaningful impact. A breathtaking story from a truly extraordinary human being." Paul Reid, Managing Director, Panasonic Australia "Inspiring stories of endurance are one thing. Remarkable stories of service and commitment are another. When you combine both together, it truly is extraordinary. Peter Baines, his stories and impact, are something quite special." Darren Hill, behavioural scientist; Executive Director and Co-Founder, Pragmatic Thinking "This is a story of endurance, courage and perseverance that ends in a story of inspiration." Peter Costello AC, Former Treasurer "I've coached a lot of runners over the years, but working with Pete has been a highlight. He's one of the humblest blokes I've ever met. His grit, consistency and quiet determination are unmatched. What Pete achieved over 1400 kilometres and 26 days running across Thailand wasn't just about physical endurance. He battled heat, fatigue, and serious wear and tear, and kept showing up. What made the difference was the purpose driving him: the work of Hands Across the Water, and the strength of the team behind him. It's proof that when you combine heart, mission and community, you can go well beyond what you thought possible." Matty Abel, running coach "An incredible story of resilience, determination and making an impact. It's a great reminder that alone we can go far but together we can go further!" Jess Fox OAM, six-time Olympian and Olympic champion "There are few who walk their talk the way Peter Baines does. Having been deeply inspired by his mission, commitment and passion over the years, I can't wait to see the impact of this special book." Michael McQueen, Multi-award winning speaker and author