Sam Bailey is a farmer, pilot, husband and best-selling author. He has achieved all of those from a wheelchair….and has an incredible ability to take an audience on the journey of his life.
From a childhood growing up in the Australian bush to a car accident in the outback that turned his life upside down and its aftermath, Sam tells his story in his own down-to-earth laconic style that captures the determination, grit and humour that made it possible.
He relates how he beat the odds to fulfil his lifelong dream to be a farmer, learning to ride a four-wheel bike; devising a hoist to get into farm machinery and ultimately learning to fly an ultralight.
Sam then found his soul mate in former Tamworth-based ABC radio Rural Reporter, Jenny Black – who he proposed to “live” on regional radio. Their story appeared on ABC TV’s “Australian Story” in 2000 with an overwhelming response and was published in April 2006 in their book ‘Head Over Heels’.
After running a mixed farming property near Croppa Creek in North West NSW for 24 years, they’ve downsized to a small farm near Tamworth, to focus more on travelling the country to tell their story and giving inspiration to others.
They are also working towards their next big goal - called Helifirst - which entails Sam becoming the first quadriplegic in the world to fly a helicopter and flying into schools to inspire children to fulfil their own dreams and goals.
Talking Points
You Don't Need Wings to Fly
You Don't Need Wings to Fly
Sam Bailey was very generous with his time and he and Jenny stayed in the Trade Show all afternoon signing books and chatting to our delegates. He was a big hit! ... keep reading CRT
Sam and Jenny were both brilliant - their 'farming' story fitted our small rural community perfectly, and everyone, from teenagers through to people in their 80's thoroughly enjoyed listening to their story - and being inspired by it. Both Sam & Jenny were very easy to get along with, and very willing to speak with the locals. Their visit is something the 300 people in attendance at our "Bugga the Blues, Bugga the Drought, Come along to the community night out" will be thinking and talking about for a long time.
Sam Bailey was an inspirational speaker. He captivated his audience with both words and feeling, and gave us the inspiration required to get out there and make a difference, just as he has done. He had the audience of state school principals laughing and crying with his message, which was delivered with true feeling. His presentation was also highly professional, and polished. He was a genuine speaker and spoke from the heart
Sam you are an inspiration. I often feel crushed by my problems. At least I can go for a walk or kick a footy with my son. You would no doubt give your left eye to be able to do that..Australia was built on the backs of blokes like you
You were truly inspirational and loved by all who heard you. Such courage to rise above your hardships and to portray to those assembled how challenges can be overcome with perseverance and tolerance For me having been in the ambulance service for over 40 years and witnessing similar incidents to yours I wonder how many have taken the path you have followed. Thank you for your inspiration and the courage you have shared with us all.
