Richard de Grijs: Keynote Speaker, Historian & Storyteller

Audiences can expect engaging, thought-provoking and highly accessible talks that combine deep expertise with compelling storytelling.

Richard de Grijs draws on international experience across science, history, leadership and public engagement to bring complex ideas and remarkable historical episodes vividly to life. His presentations are known for their clarity, warmth, humour and ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.

Topics range from maritime exploration and survival at sea to scientific discovery, navigation, astronomy, leadership under uncertainty and the hidden human stories behind global history.

Presentations can be tailored for conferences, festivals, museums, cultural organisations and special events.

Standard AV support preferred, including:
- A projector or large display screen
- An HDMI connection for presentation slides
- A lectern and microphone for larger venues
- Audio capability to play multimedia content

Richard is experienced in presenting to audiences ranging from small groups to large international conferences and is happy to discuss venue-specific requirements in advance.

Featured Keynotes:

1. Captain Cook and Health at Sea
A vivid journey into the brutal realities of life during the Age of Sail; from scurvy and shipboard medicine to survival, resilience and the origins of modern naval health.

2. To the Edge of the Universe in 26 Steps
An accessible and awe-inspiring exploration of the vast scales of the cosmos, asking where we came from and where humanity may be heading.

3. The Sound of Silence
The Universe is alive with hidden sounds beyond human hearing. Discover how astronomers turn the cosmos into something we can truly listen to.

4. The Race to Antarctica
A dramatic story of endurance, danger and Australian Antarctic exploration during the heroic age of polar discovery.

5. Sydney’s Astronomical Beginnings
Follow the remarkable story of William Dawes and the scientific foundations of early colonial Sydney.

6. When Galaxies Collide
Witness the spectacular cosmic train wrecks that shape galaxies, including the future fate of our own Milky Way.

7. Fever, Filth and the Surgeon’s Scalpel
An unforgettable look at the hidden horrors of disease, injury and survival aboard ships during the Age of Sail.

8. From Courtroom to Colony
Petty crime, harsh justice and transportation to the far side of the world; the extraordinary human stories behind Australia’s convict era.

1. Single Keynote Presentation
A standalone keynote or feature presentation (45–60 minutes plus Q&A), tailored to the audience and event format.

Suitable for:
- conferences
- festivals
- museums
- cultural organisations
- special events

2. Featured Lecture Series
A curated series of presentations exploring themes such as:

- maritime exploration
- the Age of Sail
- scientific discovery
- astronomy and cosmology
- Australian colonial history

Ideal for festivals, touring programs, educational institutions and extended events.

3. After-Dinner & Special Event Talks
Engaging, story-driven presentations designed for dinner events, clubs, associations and audience-focused gatherings.

Combining humour, historical insight and compelling storytelling.

4. Tailored Presentations
Custom presentations developed for specific audiences, themes or commemorative events.

Topics can be adapted for:
- maritime heritage
- exploration
- science communication
- leadership and resilience
- Australian history
- astronomy and discovery

No special permits required.
Standard venue AV support preferred.
Insurance arrangements can be discussed with organisers if required.
Current NSW Working With Children Check.