Chris Blowes

Chris Blowes is living proof that with the right mindset, anything is possible.

On Anzac Day 2015, Chris was surfing near Point Lincoln when he was attacked by a great white shark. He lost his left leg, suffered severe injuries to his flank, his heart stopped, and he was left bleeding out at the base of a cliff, 35 kilometres from the nearest country hospital and more than 600 kilometres from the closest trauma centre in Adelaide. The odds were undeniably stacked against him. Chris should not have survived – but he did.

Becoming an above-knee amputee meant learning to walk again, but that was only the beginning. Doctors questioned whether Chris would ever return to this trade as a builder, let alone surf again. Refusing to be defined by his trauma, Chris set his sights on reclaiming the life he loved. Through confronting fear, rebuilding confidence and challenging limiting mindsets, he returned to work on the tools and back into the ocean, ultimately becoming an Australian Para Surf Champion.

A disability advocate, wellness coach for the construction industry, co-author of ‘Caught Inside’, and highly sought-after keynote speaker, Chris demonstrates how adversity can become a catalyst for growth. His story powerfully illustrates how trauma, when met with resilience and the right mindset, can lead to purpose, transformation, and a deeper sense of joy.

Chris captivates audiences as he shares how pushing beyond comfort zones, redefining limitations, and embracing post-traumatic growth can unlock inner strength many don’t realise they have. His presentations are raw, honest and deeply human, leaving audiences inspired to rethink what’s possible in their own lives.

Chris Blowes is now a popular keynote speaker, presenting to conferences, workshops, community events, expos, intimate gatherings, Q&A’s and schools, where his story continues to motivate people to face adversity with courage, perspective and belief.