Our trek with Kokoda Historical, the 2014 Harry Bould Memorial Walk, is named after Harry Bould, a member of the 39th Battalion who went missing, presumed killed, on the 29 July 1942.

Our group of 13 from all parts of Australia (11 guys, 2 girls), was a mixture of young and old, ages ranging from 16 to 70. Unsure of the fitness levels/mental fortitude of the entire group at the start of the trek, I was amazed at how well everyone coped and adapted to the challenges we came up against. Personally, as a fit 53-year-old, I found the trek less physically challenging than expected. While certainly not easy, I never felt under stress, physically or emotionally. My less fit brother found the physical aspects harder but pushed on each day and was equally rewarded with lifelong memories. Our 70-year-old group 'elder' was simply amazing, and a testament that age should not be an excuse to rule yourself out of this wonderful experience.

David Howell, Kokoda Historical founder and our trek leader, is a font of information, from both the Kokoda campaign perspective and PNG itself. I cannot imagine being led by a more knowledgeable and passionate person. David was able to bring to life the battles and the unique nature of fighting that the soldiers endured. Having said that, whilst the days are long and the many conversations traverse all manner of subjects, as they say, I suggest steering clear of sex, politics and religion as far as possible. Oh, and David, today, colonialism is somewhat of an anachronism.

Our porters, led by Kila, were amazing. They were there for us all the time, going beyond the call of duty. I decided to hire a personal porter, Martin, which made my experience that much more enjoyable. Thank you boys and girl.

Our first night in PNG was spent at the lovely Sogeri Lodge (please see my TripAdvisor review). The trek itself was eight nights, commencing at Owers' Corner and finishing at Kokoda, south to north, following the Australian advance. Previous TripAdviser posts detail many aspects of what you will see and do on the trek. I will add that the walk across Lake Myola and through the orchid forest, not normally on a Kokoda trek itinerary, is worthwhile, in spite of the persistent rain we endured and the muddy, muddy trails and swamp. And I will never forget the friendly, yet shy smiles we received from the local villagers as we trudged into our camps each afternoon.

After completing the Kokoda Track walk we caught a PMV to the Northern Beachheads, where we stayed in Sanananda for three nights (please see my TripAdvisor review the Sanananda Guest House). Yet again, the local villagers were the most generous, friendly, helpful people you could ever meet.

Some of the most horrific fighting took place at the Northern Beachheads of Buna, Sanananda and Gona. Today it is an idyllic paradise. From both an historical perspective and a place to recharge your batteries an excursion to the Northern Beachheads, preferably after the trek, is thoroughly recommended.

Thank you Kokoda Historical and the people of Papua and New Guinea for the experience of a lifetime.