On a sweltering Sunday afternoon in Bangkok, Peter Baines settles into a chair in one of the Four Seasons meeting rooms, his composure belying the frenetic pace of his day. Just an hour earlier, he had addressed a rapt audience of 50 business leaders, his words a blend of hard-earned wisdom and compassionate insight. Our meeting, squeezed into a brief window of calm, stands in stark contrast to the grueling regimen that awaits him; five days of intense training in the Thai countryside, each day a punishing 40-kilometer run.
The air conditioning hums softly, offering a stark contrast to the tropical heat outside, and an even starker one to the challenge Peter Baines is preparing to undertake. This former forensic investigator turned humanitarian sits across from me, his lean frame and weathered hands bearing testament to a life spent in service of others.
In December, Peter Baines will embark on a 1,400-kilometer run, down through Thailand, a journey that seems to mirror his life's trajectory; long, arduous, and driven by an unwavering sense of purpose. As he sips water from a nondescript bottle, a habit ingrained by years of ultra-marathon training, Peter reflects on the path that led him from crime scenes in Sydney to tsunami-ravaged shores in Phuket, and ultimately to the helm of one of the largest Australasian charities in Thailand.
"Everything changed after the Asian tsunami," Peter Baines says, his voice carrying the weight of countless identifications performed in the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami disaster. It's a phrase that makes you listen, you feel the weight behind his words. Were it not for the profound shift it heralded in Peter Baines life; a shift from bearing witness to tragedy to actively working to prevent further hardship to those children orphaned by the tsunami 20 years ago, and which continues to support children that have a dire need of love and care, with outreach programs so kids can stay in their family homes and not add to those in homes that ‘Hands’ support.
From Crime Scenes to Catastrophes
As the afternoon light gently filters through the foils hanging in front of the hotel's windows, Peter Baines leans forward, his posture a curious mix of relaxation and readiness, a man accustomed to springing into action at a moment's notice. "For 20-odd years, I worked with the New South Wales Police," he begins, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "This was long before 'CSI Miami' made forensics look glamorous."
Peter Baines trajectory from a fresh-faced university graduate to a seasoned forensic investigator is a study in the grim realities of human nature. His cases, homicides, suicides, suspicious deaths, read like a litany of life's darkest moments. Yet it was this very immersion in tragedy that would ultimately equip him for his most challenging role.
"I transitioned to forensics while simultaneously pursuing a law degree," Peter explains, his words revealing a man driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire for justice. "I wanted to ensure legal compliance in my cases." This dual pursuit of practical experience and academic
knowledge, formed Peter Baines into a detail oriented and meticulous professional, that would serve him well in the complex world of international disaster response.
The 2002 Bali bombings marked Peter Baines first foray into international crisis response. "It positioned us as key players in Southeast Asia's forensic landscape," he explains, the understatement belying the magnitude of the task. But it was the 2004 Asian Tsunami that would prove to be the crucible in which Peter Baines future would be forged.
"We faced an unprecedented challenge," Peter recalls, his voice dropping to a near-whisper, as if the weight of the memories demands reverence. "Identifying over 5,395 victims among nearly 300,000 who died across the region." The scale was staggering, surpassing even 9/11 in its devastation.
As Peter speaks of those harrowing days - bodies exposed to water and heat, the race against decomposition, the sheer logistical nightmare. One can almost smell the tropical air heavy with loss and death. It's a testament to his resilience that he can revisit these memories without visible distress. Instead, there's a quiet determination in his eyes, a look that suggests that from this catastrophe, purpose was born.
The Birth of 'Hands Across the Water’
It was in this crucible of crisis that 'Hands Across the Water' was conceived. "Just ten months after the tsunami," Peter notes, a hint of wonder in his voice, as if he himself can scarcely believe the swift transition from identification to aid. "I was still serving as a forensic investigator when we founded the charity."
Today, 'Hands Across the Water' stands as a colossus in the world of Thai-focused charities, having channeled over 750 million baht into the country. But Peter is quick to emphasize that the organization's mission transcends mere financial aid. "We aim to create 'a life of choice' for these children," he says, leaning further forward in his chair, his gaze fixed and forthright. He then sits back in his chair, looks up as he envisions the future he's helping to shape.
This philosophy of empowerment rather than mere assistance permeates every aspect of the charity's work. From education to vocational training, the goal is clear; to nurture self-sufficiency, to transform victims into victors.
As our conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that Peter Baines' approach to charity mirrors his background in forensics- methodical, detail-oriented, and always with an eye on the long-term implications. It's an approach that has served him well, both in the painstaking work of victim identification and in the equally challenging task of rebuilding lives.
The "Run to Remember" - A Marathon of Meaning
As the interview progresses, our focus shifts to the monumental task looming on Peter Baines horizon: the "Run to Remember." campaign. Starting this December 1st, 2024, Peter Baines and
his long time friend, and supporter of ‘Hands’, Greg Wallace will embark on a 1,400-kilometer run across Thailand, from the northeastern town of Yasothon to Takua Pa in the south.
"Sixty kilometers a day for twenty-six days," Peter states matter-of-factly, as if reciting a grocery list rather than describing a feat of near-superhuman endurance. The run will conclude on December 26th, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the tsunami that forever altered the course of Baines' life.
As he outlines the logistics of the run, Peter’s eyes light up with a mixture of anticipation and resolve. "Heat management is a concern," he admits, his brow furrowing slightly. "Avoiding heat stroke and staying hydrated are critical factors I have to consider. The tropical environment adds another layer of difficulty."
The route, carefully planned to balance safety and community engagement, will take them from Baan Home Hug, a home supported by ‘Hands’ in Yasothon, to Baan Tharn Namchai, the home ‘Hands’ built in Takua Pa. "To the best of our knowledge, we'll be the first to run this specific 1,400km route," Baines adds, a hint of pride in his voice. "And certainly the first Australians to do so."
But for Peter Baines and Greg Wallace, the physical challenge pales in comparison to the mental fortitude required. He quotes ultramarathon champion Courtney Dauwalter. She talks about entering the pain cave... “when you get into that pain cave is when you say, okay, now we get to work."
This embrace of discomfort, this willingness to push beyond perceived limits, seems to be the thread that connects Peter Baines past life as a forensic investigator with his current role as a humanitarian. Both require a steely resolve, a capacity to face the darkest aspects of human existence and emerge not broken, but galvanized.
"You have to stay focused and resilient to push through the inevitable challenges," Peter explains. "My goal is to simply finish each day without injury. There are no record-breaking attempts against each day that I've previously run."
Nourishing Body and Soul
As our conversation turns to the practicalities of the run, Peter reveals a meticulously planned nutritional strategy. "The biggest challenge, particularly here in Thailand with the heat, is taking enough in," he explains. His approach is a blend of science and intuition: liquid calories, high sodium intake, electrolytes, and highly processed carbs for quick fuel.
"I aim to consume about 250ml of fluid every 15 minutes, with a minimum of one liter per hour," Peter details. "I'll actually be taking in more than that, particularly in the heat because I'm losing so much fluid, I'm also losing a lot of sodium."
Post-run nutrition is equally crucial. "It's really interesting in the preparation of what I want to eat for the run and I can prepare a whole lot of stuff and get to the end of the run and go, I haven't eaten anything because my gut just wouldn't tolerate it," Peter says. He often craves salty foods like potato chips after a run, a testament to the body's need to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.
But it's when Peter Baines speaks of what truly sustains him that his voice takes on a different timbre. "It's really about focusing on the mission," he says, his eyes meeting mine with an intensity that belies his calm demeanor. "Knowing that every step I take during this run is making a difference in the lives of those children. That's what keeps me going."
In this moment, the true nature of Peter Baines journey becomes clear. The run, like his life's work, is not about personal glory or achievement. It's a vehicle for change, a means of drawing attention to a cause that has become the cornerstone of his existence.
Community Engagement and Awareness
The "Run to Remember" is not just about the physical act of running; it's a campaign designed to raise awareness and funds for Hands Across the Water's ongoing work. The ambitious goal is to raise $1m USD to support the charity's initiatives.
A highlight of the run will be a community event in Bangkok on December 15th. "By the 15th of December I'll be well past Bangkok," Peter explains. "So on the afternoon of the 14th, I'll finish my 60 kilometers, I'll pull out the spray can and will mark the road where I finished. I'll get in the car and we'll drive back to Bangkok... on the morning of the 15th. Wake up and we'll have the community run and it'll be between a three kilometre run or a nine kilometre run."
This event will include participation from the Australian Ambassador and the Bangkok governor, showcasing the wide-reaching impact and support for the run. It's a testament to the bridges Baines has built between Australia and Thailand, between individuals and institutions, all in service of children in need.
The Road Ahead - Building Local Capacity
As our interview draws to a close, Peter Baines turns his gaze to the future. His vision for 'Hands Across the Water' is evolving, focusing on building local capacity within Thailand. "We've recently recruited a wonderful Thai person into our team," he says, a note of pride in his voice. "There's a real purpose behind us in wanting to move the base of Hands and the fundraising from Australia to Thailand."
This transition, Peter explains, isn't about physically relocating the Australian team, but rather about empowering Thais to support their own communities. It's a philosophy that extends to the charity's newest ventures: a social enterprise called Hands Experience Thailand, which provides bike tours and employs young people who have grown up in Hands Across the Water homes.
"We set up a company as a social enterprise in the south of Thailand called Hands Experience Thailand," Peter elaborates. "It provides bike services and touring services for the bike rides that we bring across. Previously, the income generated through the riding fees went to a for-profit company. For a number of reasons, we looked at it and said, “I think we can do this ourselves.”
This initiative involves setting up their own company, buying their own bikes, making a capital investment to establish the business, and training staff to become licensed tour guides. The enterprise services the resorts of the Khao Lak region with day tours on bicycles, creating a sustainable source of income and employment.
As Baines outlines the charity's future projects, the scope of his vision becomes clear. There are four major initiatives in development:
1. A Center Located In Baan Home Hug : To provide digital services training, allowing young people to stay in the Isaan region (NE Thailand) while being gainfully employed in the digital space.
2. A Hospitality Training Centre: Located in the Khao Lak region, this center is close to obtaining its licensing.
3. An Agricultural Learning Centre: The government of Phang Nga recently donated land where Hands Across the Water plans to invest in and open an agricultural learning center. This will provide income for the homes, produce for the community, and training opportunities.
4. A Registered Training Organization: Hands Across the Water aims to set itself up as a registered training organization to provide opportunities for kids who don't want to go to university.
Each of these initiatives is designed not just to provide immediate aid, but to create sustainable pathways out of poverty. "How we measure our success is creating a life of choice for the children, rather than one of chance," Baines emphasizes. "What we want is that when it comes time for the kids to leave our care, when they decide to leave, they've got a real choice before them."
The Long Run
As our time together draws to a close, I ask Peter for one piece of advice he'd like to leave with our readers. His response is immediate and profound: "Feed your soul," he says, his eyes alight with conviction. "When we do work that feeds our soul, there are immeasurable returns that come to us in many different ways."
As I watch Peter Baines gather his things, a water bottle, his running shoes for our front cover photo, I'm struck by the dichotomy of the man before me. Here is someone who has witnessed the depths of human tragedy, yet remains steadfastly optimistic about our capacity for good. A man who has made a career out of running towards disaster, not away from it.
In December, Peter Baines will set out on his 1,400-kilometer journey across Thailand. But in truth, he's been on this run for decades - a marathon of compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to creating a better world, one step at a time.
As I step out of the air-conditioned sanctuary of the Four Seasons into Bangkok's sweltering heat, I can't help but feel a sense of awe. In a world that often seems defined by short-term thinking and quick fixes, Peter Baines stands as a testament to the power of playing the long game. His upcoming run may be measured in kilometers, but the true distance he's covered from forensic investigator to humanitarian leader - is immeasurable.
The "Run to Remember" is more than just a physical challenge or a fundraising event. It's a powerful symbol of Peter Baines' two-decade commitment to the people of Thailand, a journey that began when he was deployed as a forensic specialist in the aftermath of the tsunami. As he prepares to retrace the path that changed his life, Peter Baines is not just remembering the past; he's running towards a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Words - Buzz Langton
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