Join us for an unforgettable event as we dive into the world of risk-taking with Thai Cave Rescuer and joint 2019 Australian of the Year, Dr Richard 'Harry' Harris SC OAM. In conversation with journalist Julia Lester he will recount the stories of other people who regularly risk their lives and will explain what we can learn from the world's leading risk-takers. 

‘Harry’ Harris does something for fun that would leave the rest of us in shivers. In near darkness and tight spaces, underwater and deep underground, he crawls through unexplored caves in what’s often described as the most dangerous sport in the world.

To us, that’s a nightmare. To him, it’s recreation. He’s highly experienced, has done his research, controlled for all conceivable risks, and he’s completely focused. Flooded underground caves are his safe space. And the discipline involved – even the danger – leaves him better prepared to manage the day-to-day stresses of life in the twenty-first century. Is he the only one who feels that way?

Harry's latest book, The Art of Risk is the ultimate armchair adventure. The book captures Harry's conversations with other ‘risk-takers’ about why they do what they do, how they prepare, and how they have handled things going wrong. Harry shares the experiences of climber Alex Honnold (of ‘Free Solo’), sailor Jessica Watson, film director and deep-sea diver James Cameron, among many less familiar world-beaters, each of whom has a fascinating story. The book includes base-jumpers, drag-racers, snipers, surfers, and people adventuring from the highest of skies to the deepest of oceans.

Harry’s conversations give us insights into what motivates these people and why a life without risk is no life at all. He believes that by doing ‘the hard things’ in life you can push yourself a little further and become stronger, more courageous and resilient.  

Click HERE to purchase a copy of Richard Harris' new book The Art of Risk from Matilda Bookshop's website and choose Hawke Centre Events Free S.A. Postage as the delivery option. They will then deliver or post your book to South Australian addresses at no additional cost when it is published in July, or it can be collected at the event on the night.

Presented by The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre