The Kokoda Track is a unique land steeped in culture and mystery. True to its claim of being one of the last frontiers on earth, the natural beauty and intricate history of this area are beckoning to be explored.
This unique trip had been on the trekkers ‘bucket lists’ for many years and after months of training in the gym, swimming laps, running around Lake Benalla, weekly walks of up to 27 kilometres in the Strathbogie Ranges, Mount Samaria, the Warby Ranges, and finally mastering the dreaded ‘torture track’ at Lima a group of 8 absolute champions who hailed from Benalla and Euroa in NE Victoria, presented themselves ready to walk the Kokoda Track. There was:
After a plane flight to Popendetta and a bumpy PMV ride to Kokoda, the guys were really glad to begin their Kokoda journey. Day one brought plenty of banter and laughs but finished with a steep ascent to Deniki, a shock to many, but an indication of what was to come for the remainder of the trip.
This unique trip had been on the trekkers ‘bucket lists’ for many years and after months of training in the gym, swimming laps, running around Lake Benalla, weekly walks of up to 27 kilometres in the Strathbogie Ranges, Mount Samaria, the Warby Ranges, and finally mastering the dreaded ‘torture track’ at Lima a group of 8 absolute champions who hailed from Benalla and Euroa in NE Victoria, presented themselves ready to walk the Kokoda Track. There was:
- ‘Sir John’, who had the ‘queen wave’ working perfectly as we drove form Popendetta to Kokoda, really worked hard on his pre- trek fitness at ‘boot camp’ and said that Kokoda had been a life changing experience, giving him a new body and a new lease on life.
- ‘Sparksy’, who had a lot of time to give to all the porters and trekkers. So obviously everyone had a lot of time and respect for him.
- ‘Pete’ really had a keen interest in everything on the track: history, culture, people and geography. His curiosity really sparked thinking amongst others.
- ‘Cuz’, a very well travelled and cultured man. A champion who enjoys a bit of fun and always keeps himself fit and ready for the next challenge.
- ‘Macca’, who was really the glue of the group and brought people together
- ‘Mick’, a kindhearted man and deep thinker who really knows people and cares for them.
- ‘Gags’, a vibrant man who really draws people in with his creative thoughts and humour.
- ‘Vince’, the bloke that really started this whole trip. An intelligent and passionate man who had long wanted to walk the Kokoda Track and tick this adventure off his bucket list.
After a plane flight to Popendetta and a bumpy PMV ride to Kokoda, the guys were really glad to begin their Kokoda journey. Day one brought plenty of banter and laughs but finished with a steep ascent to Deniki, a shock to many, but an indication of what was to come for the remainder of the trip.
The next few days saw the group find their ‘track pace’, a moving Isurava memorial service where hardened men shed a tear for those who fought before them, in front of the four pillars marked ‘mateship’, ‘sacrifice’, ‘courage’ and ‘endurance’. There was plenty of talk about who was the best footy team (the Grand Final will definitely be played between Nth Melbourne and Richmond next year- hey Macca?), glory days in personal sporting pursuits, other travels and plenty of humour.
A memorable moment was when we walked into Kagi village, to be met by some amazing children singing a welcome song to us. The group were able to walk around and see what village life was like. Spending time with the local teacher Mana and working on some educational programs with her was another highlight. The group even donated an iPad to Kagi Elementary School. What a generous donation!
At Brigade Hill, Guide in Training (GIT), Robyn, led us in a service of remembrance and individuals read poems and told stories of the courage and commitment from our young diggers in fighting both the Japanese and coping with the extremely difficult conditions on the track. As we moved further down the track we came to the village of Ioribaiwa, the furthest point the Japanese army advanced before being told to withdraw back to Buna on the north coast.
On the eighth day of the trek we reached our destination, Ower’s Corner, approximately 65 kilometres from Port Moresby. It was an extremely poignant moment as we walked through the arches and reflected on those who had fought on the track years ago. On the way to Port Moresby we paid a visit to the Bomana War Cemetery, where three and half thousand allied soldiers are buried, the majority of whom are Australians.
The eight day trek was an experience we all shall never forget.
A memorable moment was when we walked into Kagi village, to be met by some amazing children singing a welcome song to us. The group were able to walk around and see what village life was like. Spending time with the local teacher Mana and working on some educational programs with her was another highlight. The group even donated an iPad to Kagi Elementary School. What a generous donation!
At Brigade Hill, Guide in Training (GIT), Robyn, led us in a service of remembrance and individuals read poems and told stories of the courage and commitment from our young diggers in fighting both the Japanese and coping with the extremely difficult conditions on the track. As we moved further down the track we came to the village of Ioribaiwa, the furthest point the Japanese army advanced before being told to withdraw back to Buna on the north coast.
On the eighth day of the trek we reached our destination, Ower’s Corner, approximately 65 kilometres from Port Moresby. It was an extremely poignant moment as we walked through the arches and reflected on those who had fought on the track years ago. On the way to Port Moresby we paid a visit to the Bomana War Cemetery, where three and half thousand allied soldiers are buried, the majority of whom are Australians.
The eight day trek was an experience we all shall never forget.
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