Encore: My year circumnavigating Australia on a surf ski

Encore: My year circumnavigating Australia on a surf ski

From Conversations by ABC Australia

April 28, 2026 · 52 min

About this episode

Bonnie Hancock shares her incredible journey of paddling around Australia on a surf ski, facing numerous challenges and adventures along the way.

Bonnie Hancock got the idea to paddle around Australia after she stumbled on a book in her local library, the wild adventure ended being a gruelling 12,700 kilometre journey took almost a year to complete. Along the way, Bonnie met sharks, crocodiles, and sea snakes, she battled unrelenting seasickness and some serious storms. She also met some fascinating characters and saw the whole of Australia from a very unique vantage point. Further information The Girl Who Touched The Stars is published by HarperCollinsThis episode was first broadcast in 2024 The producer was Meggie Morris and Carmel Rooney was the Executive Producer. It explores, sea kayaking, Australia, sharks, crocodiles, sea snakes, dangerous storms, hypothermia, endurance, adventure, physical challenge, mental challenge, competition, psychology, mental health, support and friendship. To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

People in this episode

Guest: Bonnie Hancock

Topics covered

  • sea kayaking
  • adventure
  • endurance
  • mental health
  • physical challenge
  • friendship

Keywords

  • circumnavigating Australia
  • surf ski
  • sharks
  • crocodiles
  • sea snakes
  • storms
  • hypothermia
  • competition

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: HarperCollins, ABC Australia

Places: Australia

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