Corporate Speaker
Tony Mowbray


"I could see and smell death in the water"


The "Power of Commitment" enabled Tony Mowbray to become the fastest Australian to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world. This 181-day, record-breaking adventure required total focus and unswerving self-belief.

Tony and his crew on board "Solo Globe Challenger" were part of the 1998 Sydney to Hobart fleet, which encountered the worst race-conditions on record. Little did Tony know that within 24 hours of the start he and his crew would be fighting a 15-hour battle of life and death - nature was asking them to reach further within themselves than they ever had before. "Solo Globe Challenger" surfed down the face of a 60-foot wave upside down after a monumental knock down. In 160 km/hr winds Tony "could see and smell death in the water". As Tony states "the devil took me by the hand and led me to the edge of a huge precipice and made me stand there on tippy toes for 15 hours - he allowed me to walk away but tragically 6 men died throughout that afternoon and the next day". The fight for life was won but Tony's dream of sailing around the world was shattered. His boat was all but wrecked, as was his physical and mental state. Within 4 months Tony's spirit had reignited the flame of a solo world circumnavigation. His boat was rebuilt and he left Australia in search of some answers.

Tony Mowbray talks with authority about the "Power of Commitment". His inspiring story offers all who hear it a recipe for success in today's tough business climate. Just as sailing requires you to tack to reach your destination, tacking for success is one of the principles that allowed Tony to set an Australian record time when he sailed the globe. Short, medium and long-term goal setting is essential to achieving success, and he demonstrates how this is accomplished. He also stresses the importance of reviewing goals, the constant need for flexibility, making adjustments and improvising as you move forward. His presentation features tools to help overcome major hurdles and he'll equip you with common-sense problem solving techniques. Tony explains how 100% commitment encourages those around you to respond in all manner of ways to assist you to achieve your goals. His approach is refreshing and truly enlightening.

Tony Mowbray's story is an incredible tale of adventure. His life story has many twists and turns. He has raised over $200,000 for charity; completed marathons and triathlons; has competed in 15 Sydney to Hobart Yacht races; held the record for sailing non-stop around Australia and in April 2001 became Australia's fastest ever solo, non-stop and unassisted world circumnavigator. Tony Mowbray is married to Lorraine and is father to Holly (10) and Jordan (8). He is 46 years old and a fiercely proud Australian. In tackling his 15th Sydney to Hobart in 2001 there was a pressing need to complete the Sydney to Hobart chapter - "That's Tony Mowbray!"

Australia's fastest solo, non-stop and
unassisted world circumnavigator



Clients have their say .....


"Tony Mowbray is an inspirational Australian. His story is one of courage, sacrifice and achievement. You will be amazed and inspired."
Dr Adrian Hurley OAM, Olympian, CEO Newcastle and Hunter Events Corporation


"Tony has a great story and shares a great message. He captured our attention 100% and made a real impact - long remembered by all."
Alexandra Finley, MLC Management Ltd.


"Tony takes his people on an adventure of a lifetime. If you are able to take away just a fraction of his infectious determination and courage, your life will be greatly enriched."
Dr Andy Gill, Hunter Area Health


"I have experienced the pleasure of Tony's presentation and found him informative, exciting, interesting and entertaining. He leaves you wanting more."
Cliff Marsh OAM, Chairman Helicopter Rescue Service


"Fantastic, Wonderful! What a great inspiration. He had the room captured with his story telling. What an amazing man."
Angela Court, Toyota Motor Corporation


"Excellent. Tony was very well received by the audience who all commented that they had been inspired and motivated by his story."
Julie Charles, National Insurance Brokers Association



Postscript -

After the tragic 1998 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Tony felt there was unfinished business. Most people would have walked away after '98 but for Tony and his crew it was always a case of going "Back to Bass Strait" to "face the demons". On the 31st December 2001, Solo Globe Challenger and the original crew crossed the finish line of the 57th Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.


"Look it in the Eye!"