The Man from Snowy River is one of Australia’s most iconic films, and today at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Show Radio’s Rebecca Graham caught up with the man who rode into our hearts—Tom Burlinson.
Yes, he really did ride down that hill.
“That’s the main question,” Tom laughs. “And I’m glad to reply truthfully—it was me in those scenes of the terrible descent.” That unforgettable moment, captured in a single daring ride, became the cornerstone of the film’s legend—and Tom’s career.
Tom was a city boy cast in a bush legend. “The riding was a major challenge. But through Charlie Lovick, the mountain man who taught me how to ride, I learned not just the skill—but the heritage behind it.”
He credits the film’s success to a combination of its stunning landscape, music, action, and romance, with a little on-screen chemistry between him and co-star Sigrid Thornton. “We became very close,” he shares. “That helped bring the romance to life.”
Despite being released in 1982, the film’s legacy continues. “It was the number one box office movie in Australia at the time—even ahead of international films,” Tom says. Recent concert screenings with full orchestras have revived its magic for a new generation.
And the hat? The iconic Akubra? “It was stolen from my flat after a New Year’s party in the ’80s,” Tom recalls. “It was shocking. I never got it back.” Though the loss still stings, he treasures the stock whip made for him by Lovick—one of the few remaining mementos from a legendary role.
After hearing his story, I visited the Akubra stand here at the Show to see if I could find a replacement—and guess what? Akubra has released the Jim Craig hat! It’s a beautiful tan style with a kangaroo leather band, named after Tom’s character in the film. It’s almost sold out—proof that the legend still rides on.
Tom may not be riding down any more hills, but his role as Jim Craig remains timeless.
Listen to the full interview here:
