Dr. Craig Challen OAM
Keynote Speaker
Dr Craig Challen is one of the heroes of the Thai cave rescue that successfully saved the lives of 12 young boys and their soccer coach. His story is one of sheer bravery and determination.
A cave diving expert since the 1990s his expertise along with fellow dive team members were the difference in their life and death rescue.
Based in Perth
About
A veterinary surgeon by profession, he founded the Vetwest (later Australian Animal Hospitals) group of veterinary practices in 1993 and ran it until selling his interest and retiring in 2017.
Craig along with Adelaide colleague and friend Dr Richard Harris were jointly presented with the honour of Australian of the year as a result of their heroic efforts.
Craig also has an avid interest in shipwreck diving and has explored sites over the last 15 years in the South China Sea, Solomon Islands, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Craig is also an enthusiastic helicopter and aeroplane pilot.
