Justin Jones (or otherwise affectionately known as Jonesy) is one of Australia’s premier motivational speakers and extreme adventurers. Constantly pushing the boundaries of human endurance he has undertaken a number of large scale expeditions over the past 14 years. Two in particular have captured global acclaim and attention.
On the 26th January 2012, he and long time friend, James Castrission made history by completing the longest unsupported polar expedition of all time. In 100 years of polar exploration no-one had EVER walked from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole and back without assistance. Many had tried, none had succeeded. After 89 gruelling days they made it back to the coast after having skied 2275km with everything they needed to survive in the harshest environment on Earth. This expedition was named Crossing the Ice.
Four years earlier he Crossed the Ditch again with James Castrission – paddling 3318km without assistance across the Tasman Sea for another world first. They braved 10 metre swells, howling winds, endured severe food and sleep deprivation and adverse winds and currents. They became the first kayakers to cross the Tasman Sea as well as becoming the longest transoceanic double kayak expedition. Staggering upon the shores of New Zealand, the adventurers were sunburnt, bearded, underweight, and physically and mentally wasted…but most of all happy to be alive.
Not only was this expedition a huge physical challenge but a phenomenal logistical puzzle. Jonesy spent over 3.5 yrs putting together the plans and processes, designing and building the kayak, and training/upskilling for this expedition.
Jonesy is highly regarded as one of Australia’s premier public speakers. He has shared his incredible stories with over 250,000 people around the world including Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Vietnam, Fiji, Indonesia, China and Dubai. Insights into leadership, teamwork, risk management and how to overcome adversity have captivated global audiences.
He has also produced and directed two award winning documentaries about his expeditions and produced a one hour special for the National Geographic Channel in the US.