30 June 2020
Paul Brown (1972) is the Owner and Director of Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours. Paul established Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours in 1992 with his wife Mandy with the aim of showcasing the best that Kangaroo Island has to offer.
The best advice I have ever been given was…
Worry about the things you can do something about and ignore everything else. The other was from a friend when I was heavily involved in agriculture politics “take on board criticism from people you respect, ignore the rest”.
What is your biggest career highlight?
I have been a farmer and a tour operator, and I would have to say the thing I am most proud of is my contribution to my community. I have represented agriculture and tourism on boards at a local, State, and National level as well as internationally and continue to be involved.
Who was your favourite teacher at Pembroke and why?
It was so long ago, I hardly remember. My history teacher Mr Stewart taught out of the same book for the whole time I had him and told one joke in three years, but it was worth waiting for. I will always remember John Moody – hard but fair.
What are your top three things to do on Kangaroo Island?
Tour with Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours, Tour with Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours and yes, Tour with Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours as well as:
- Walk through the tunnels to Stokes Bay on a summers day.
- Visit Emu Bay and run along the 5km long beach.
- Visit Flinders Chase and in particular Admirals Arch a spectacular formation and home to the long nose Seals.
What do you do to relax?
I have competed in age group triathlons for 10 years and love the training. I read, and love to watch cricket and footy.
What is the biggest risk you have taken?
Doing the Australian Rural Leadership Program and buying Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours.
What is something you are grateful for?
Being married to Mandy for 38 years and our amazing children Hamish and Alexandra, their partners Dayna and Will and our very cute granddaughter Lou Lou, who I hope will be the 3rd generation at Pembroke.
Name three places that are on your bucket list.
I have been very lucky to travel for work and pleasure to 30 or 40 countries but I would really like to go to the Antarctic, South Africa and Sydney to see Lou Lou and of course Alexandra and Will.
What is a skill you wish you had?
To be calm.
What advice would you give to your 18 year-old-self?
Stay in Adelaide after finishing school, study and give district cricket a go like I was advised to do.