I first met the founder of Kokoda Historical, David Howell, when working with him at the Shrine of Remembrance. In 2012 I was invited to accompany him and our fellow Shrine colleague, Neil Sharkey on the annual 39th Battalion Harry Bould Trek in the year of the 70th anniversary of the Kokoda Campaign.

Harry Bould was a member of the 39th Infantry Battalion and lost his life fighting at Kokoda, his body was never recovered and he has no known grave. His name is recorded on the rotunda at Bomana cemetery. Each year students from the Cardinia Shire, the same Shire that Harry Bould came from, write an essay on what Kokoda means to them. The students are selected by a panel that includes veterans of the 39th Battalion.

Walking in the footsteps of those who fought and died, fighting in horrific jungle conditions certainly brought the history to life. David is a wealth of knowledge and so too Neil, together we had the opportunity to share stories of deeds past done and to inspire a younger generation.

In addition to seeing places like Brigade Hill, Isurava and Kokoda, I also had the privilege of visiting the Northern Beachheads of Buna, Gona and Sanananda thus capturing the complete Kokoda story and visiting some of the most beautiful flora and fauna imaginable.

The people and culture of PNG is something to experience, so close to our shores but a lifetime away. I highly recommend making the pilgrimage to Kokoda and sharing in this unique story.

Dr Adrian Threlfall, June 2010