Boxing Day tsunami forever changed Peter Baines’ life and lives of dozens of Thai orphans

PETER Baines’ life was forever changed by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. Mr Baines was a NSW Police forensic detective sent to Thailand to help identify thousands of bodies.

PETER Baines’ life was forever changed by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

Mr Baines was a NSW Police forensic detective sent to Thailand to help identify thousands of bodies.

But it was the faces of the young survivors that affected him after he returned home. Mr Baines could not forget a group of 32 children orphaned in the tsunami who were living in a tent.

“I came back and, like everyone who worked over there, wanted to do something,” Mr Baines, from Narrabeen, said.

Within a year, Mr Baines raised enough money to build two homes for children in Khoa Lak, one of the worst-hit areas.

“I was a bit naive when I started, thinking we’ll build them a home and the ­problem is solved,” Mr ­Baines said. “I walked away thinking: ‘Well, now who looks after them? Who pays the utilities? Who pays for the food? Who pays for their education and health’?”

Determined to continue helping the children, Mr Baines left the police force and founded the charity, Hands Across The Water, which today supports ­hundreds of disadvantaged kids across Thailand by ­providing them with a ­loving home, nutritious food, essential medication and access to education.

Children at one of two orphanages in Thailand funded by the Hands Across The Water charity. Picture: Supplied

About 95 children now live at the orphanage while nine former residents are studying at university with scholarship money raised by Mr Baines.

Mr Baines’ charity work has also helped establish a community centre in Khoa Lak offering daycare and ­vocational training for locals.

“When you can make a significant difference, how can you not continue to help?” Mr Baines said.

An aerial shot of the tsunami-hit southern Thailand taken by former police forensic detective Peter Baines Picture: Supplied

The aftermath of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. Picture: Supplied

Hands Across The Water staff member Sian Gooden nominated Mr Baines in the Heroism category of the Pride of Australia awards, saying: “Peter lives by his mantra: ‘If not you, then who?’ and shows unwavering dedication to ensure at-risk kids in Thailand receive the opportunities they deserve.”

Children at one of two orphanages in Thailand funded by the Hands Across The Water charity started by Peter Baines. Picture: Supplied

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