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Laura Waters is a long-distance hiker and kayaker, award-winning author of two bestselling books, and travel writer whose work regularly appears in leading publications such as Escape, Explore, Traveller, Australian Geographic Outdoor, Australian Traveller and many more.
Laura didn’t climb the Seven Summits, row solo around the world or set any world records. She is, however, a regular woman who through courage and determination, transformed her life from ho-hum to yee-hah! She’s passionate about making the most of this one short existence and inspiring others to be courageous, authentic and live their best lives.
as seen on…
Studio 10
ABC NEWS breakfast
THE BACKSTORY
A 3,000km, five-month hike down the entire length of New Zealand in 2013/14 shifted the course of Laura’s life.
Mired in anxiety and with a hiking buddy who pulled out on the second day, she was forced to face her fears and continue alone. The walk tested her with navigational challenges, snowstorms, countless river crossings, a few shoulder dislocations and wind strong enough to blow her off her feet, but by the end, she emerged a new woman. Nature had rewilded and recalibrated her, and she’d flexed her bravery muscle so much that it had become a permanent fixture. Suddenly, the world was full of possibilities.
With newfound courage, Laura shifted career to become a writer (a childhood dream), penning bestselling books Bewildered (awarded ‘Best Travel Book’ at the 2021 ASTW Awards) and Ultimate Walks & Hikes Australia (finalist for ‘Best Travel Book’ at the 2024 ASTW Awards), and writing for leading newspapers and magazines.
In 2024, curiosity about Australia’s longest river led Laura to kayak 2,400km solo down the length of the Murray over 76 days, from the foothills of the Australian Alps in New South Wales to the Southern Ocean in South Australia.
talking to ABC nightlife about Australia’s ultimate Walks and Hikes.
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