In December 2006 Hands Across the Water Australia appointed a formal Board of Directors. After more than 12 months of managing the operations of Hands Australia alone, it was with great appreciation and relief that Peter's request for help was answered by a few outstanding and committed individuals.

The appointment of the Board saw a new chapter begin for Hands Across the Water Australia. The Board Members are all very accomplished in their chosen field, bringing a wide range of skills and attributes to the table. They are well respected and most importantly, they share his vision for supporting the children.

Peter Baines » Chairman

Founder of Hands Across the Water, Peter connected with the needs of the Tsunami orphans in Thailand whilst working there in 2005 with the Disaster Victim Identification teams. His team was responsible for identifying Tsunami victims in and around Phuket and subsequently returning their bodies to their families.

Peter worked with the NSW Police for over 20 years, specializing in Forensic Science. During that time he worked nationally and internationally and spent the last two years with the National Institute of Forensic Science working on counter terrorism capacity building. This saw him work with Interpol and the United Nations Office of Drug and Crime. He was a leader in his chosen field, world renowned for his work in Bali, Thailand and locally.

Peter currently runs his own business traveling the world speaking on leadership lessons learned from his experiences managing crises on the world stage, whilst raising money for Hands Across the Water. Peter delights in the opportunity of returning to Thailand and visiting the children at the Baan Tharn Namchai Orphanage at every opportunity.

Scott Stein » Board member

For the past 20 years, Scott has watched as people at home and at work switch off and become numb. As an educator, trainer and coach he has been in a unique position to inspire and challenge over 10,000 senior executives, managers and frontline staff, to change the way they think and operate across Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

After completing University, and teaching as an Instructor at Central Michigan University, he began to be drawn into his heritage - Native American philosophy, which he now uses to get the best performance out of people in his role as Corporate trainer and coach.

Scott brings amazing business acumen and motivation to the Hands team. Married to Nat and dad to 3 littlies, Scott is determined to leave a big footprint on this earth and connected with Peter's passion and the Hands cause upon hearing him speak during 2006.

Lyle Van Leeuwen » Board Member

Having worked with Peter in the Forensic Services Group of NSW Police for 17 years, Lyle is known as a "doer". With a "can do" attitude and big, big heart, as well as a first hand understanding of what Peter's job is all about, Lyle's role on the Board is to make good things happen. Lyle is instrumental in organising some of the fundraising functions and activities of the Board.

A keen boater and married to Pat, Lyle brings the contrasting qualities of ferocity and gentleness, as well as action and support to the table. Lyle often accompanies Peter to speaking engagements to assist with managing and harnessing audience interest in Hands.

Kay Spencer » Board Member

Kay is the Managing Director of the National Association of Retail Traders of Australia (NARTA).

She joined the hands team after hearing Peter speak and realising that while the memory of the Tsunami will fade for so many people, the children that Hands are helping will still be without parents and living with the memories of that day for the rest of their lives.

As an accomplished leader, Kay brings to Hands her extensive knowledge of the business sector, as well as beauty in heart and soul!