Terry Kennedy

Terry Kennedy’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. After a series of life-altering events, he emerged stronger, inspiring audiences worldwide with his motivational presentations. He details his near-death experience and emphasises controlling things we are able to rather than focussing on things we cannot control.

Leaving Castlemaine Secondary School, Terry embarked on a diverse career path, including service in the Royal Australian Navy, followed by his roles in telecommunications sales and advertising. However, it was personal challenges that reshaped Terry’s life. Witnessing his son Archie’s battle with a rare brain condition ignited a transformation within him. Determined to be there for his family, Terry shed 35kg, symbolising his commitment to change and growth. Archie went on to have multiple surgeries and lengthy hospital stays whilst Terry focussed on bettering himself for his young family.

Tragedy struck again when Terry’s father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Drawing on his father’s legacy as a marathon runner, Terry decided to honour him by training and completing a marathon. Yet, just days before the race, Terry faced a brain stem stroke and heart attack at the age of 33, robbing him of his ability to walk, see, and speak. Undeterred, Terry embarked on a gruelling rehabilitation journey, fuelled by the desire to reclaim his life. Against all odds, he participated in the Melbourne Marathon, exceeding his own expectations just 8 weeks after relearning to walk. 

Despite lingering balance issues, terry refused to be held back, incorporating cycling and swimming into his regimen. His perseverance paid off when he completed the Melbourne Ironman in 2013, only 8 months after he was discharged from hospital, a remarkable feat considering his recent health battles. Terry’s resilience captured global attention, earning him a spot in the prestigious Hawaii Ironman World Championships. Overcoming extreme conditions, he crossed the finish line, inspiring others with his indomitable spirit. 

Transitioning into motivational speaking, Terry shares his extraordinary journey, urging audiences to confront adversity head-on. He emphasises the importance of setting daring goals, holding oneself accountable, and finding purpose in life’s challenges. Through his teachings, Terry empowers others to seize control of their destinies, refusing to be defined by circumstances beyond their control. His story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that with perseverance and determination, anything is possible. 

Terry’s range of speaking topics include, setting and achieving goals, inspiring and motivating both yourself and others, concentration and staying focussed, overcoming difficult situations to come out on top, learning what things are within your control and how to control them, achieving the impossible, and most importantly, making the most out of the life you have.