I was incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to attend a Kokoda Trek in April 2015. Not only because I was attending as the official chaplain for the group, but also because I took part in a 96km pilgrimage on the centenary of ANZAC Day. It felt as though we had not only conquered the Kokoda track, but our attendance at the Dawn Service at Isurava Memorial on ANZAC Day had been earned by walking in the footsteps of those who had gone before us. It was surreal.

It was an honour to walk alongside current and past serving members in the ADF and their families. Listening to their stories urged me forward even when I felt like the track was beating me. It was not only a physically and mentally challenging adventure, but it was also a spiritual journey for many of the trekkers as well.

The trek leaders were in the Army and one also worked at the shrine of remembrance as a war historian. This made for real and relevant reflections along the track. The admin team were almost always present and were really helpful. It wasn’t a forced march and there was plenty of time to enjoy the inspiring natural forest that surrounded us.

Overall, I get the sense that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity for myself and many of the trekkers. We left PNG in high spirits and with a real sense of accomplishment. It was inspirational to the point of being life-changing.