Thinking of Trekking
on Anzac Day?
“You don’t go to Gallipoli for a swim just like you wouldn’t go to Kokoda just for a hike. Completing the Kokoda Trail is much more than a physical challenge and a holiday – it’s a life changing experience.”—Trekker, 2005.
If you’re reading this page, chances are you’ve been thinking about walking the Kokoda Trail for a while, maybe even years.
Friends have done it; you’ve read books or seen a movie about this famous chapter in Australian history. Maybe the source of your inspiration is closer to home. Many past trekkers had a father, grandfather or other relative to whom they wish to pay tribute by walking the track.
You realise you’ll be taking on a grueling 96 kilometre rugged mountain trail through tropical jungle across the Owen Stanley Ranges of Papua New Guinea. You’re ready to pay your respects, learn more about its history and be inspired by the brave men who defended Australia in 1942 by defeating the Japanese Imperial Army.
There are precious few opportunities in day-to-day life to test our reserve of inner strength– this is definitely one of them. Many trekkers have found the experience to be life changing after challenging and breaking personal boundaries of endurance, comfort and commitment.
The four words etched in the memorial at Isurava—Endurance, Mateship, Courage & Sacrifice—aptly reflect the war-time experience and these remain relevant to modern day trekkers, thankfully without the ultimate sacrifice.
