Robert Pennicott is a celebrated Tasmanian eco-tourism pioneer, conservationist and Rotraian, known for blending adventure with environmental impact. Robert Pennicott founded
Bruny Island Cruises in 1999, which evolved into
Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, a multi-award-winning tourism company showcasing Tasmania’s natural beauty. A former fisherman, Robert’s deep love for the ocean inspired him to create experiences that support local communities and promote sustainability. In 2007, he launched the
Tasmanian Coast Conservation Fund, which helped eradicate feral cats from Tasman Island, saving over 50,000 seabirds annually. His philanthropic reach expanded with the
Pennicott Foundation in 2011, supporting global conservation and community initiatives. Its first project,
Follow the Yellow Boat Road, in which Robert circumnavigated Australia in a 5.4 metre inflatable dinghy, raised $300,000 for environmental causes and Rotary International’s polio eradication efforts. Robert has also helped to restore ecosystems, clear beaches and oceans of plastic and donated money to help bring back Tasmanian Aboriginal artifacts from overseas. Named Tasmanian of the Year in 2012, Robert continues to champion eco-tourism and conservation, proving that small actions can lead to big change.
