Kokoda 2019: A Transformative Journey of Courage and Connection

Kokoda was never a destination that crossed my mind, at least not in the foreseeable future. Yet, out of nowhere, a burning desire ignited within me—a yearning to challenge myself and conquer the legendary Kokoda Track.

The journey began with a simple booking, followed by a year of rigorous training. Admittedly, my preparation fell short. Only a few days at the You Yangs and a single Kokoda Historical training run at Mount Macedon were all I managed. But with my grandfather, a veteran of four Kokoda expeditions, by my side, and a decent understanding of the history, I felt a sense of readiness.

Training, though not extensive, proved to be a mere glimpse of what awaited me. Kokoda was an entirely different beast—a relentless test unlike anything I had experienced before. But I wasn't overly concerned about my lack of training. Football preseason kept me physically active twice a week during the time I should have dedicated to preparation.

Prior to my departure, I had the privilege of meeting two veterans from the 39th Battalion, George Cops and Alan "Kanga" Moore. Their personal stories and firsthand accounts of the track left an indelible mark on me and my grandfather. We were forever grateful for the opportunity to connect with these incredible individuals.

My motivation to undertake the Kokoda Track extended beyond proving myself. While the historical significance played a significant role, it was also an opportunity for self-discovery. Along the arduous path, I would not only unravel the history but also unearth the depths of my own resilience, both mentally and physically.

Fast forward to the track itself, and I find myself at a loss for words to describe its sheer magnificence. There's an inexplicable allure in ascending those hills, in pushing oneself to the limit.

Let me break it down for you: we walked approximately 9-10 hours a day, covering over 20 kilometers and conquering an average of 200 flights of stairs. We were fortunate that rain only graced us twice, and always at night. While we may not have experienced the "full" intensity some might expect, our journey was undeniably an experience of a lifetime.

The sleeping arrangements were unlike anything I had encountered before. Imagine a tent-sized sleeping swag, where we had to fit our packs inside to deter potential theft. For us females, getting dressed was a challenge, as the tents did not allow for sitting up. Nevertheless, we adapted and overcame, fueled by exhaustion, typically falling asleep by 8 PM. Surprisingly, the toilets were not as dreadful as anticipated. Though they were essentially holes in the ground, most villages had makeshift toilet seats with holes, although looking down was strongly advised against. "Showering" became a cherished ritual, especially in the camps where we were fortunate to find shower cubicles with running water from nearby rivers. On other nights, bathing in the river was our only option. Despite the initial biting cold, it was a welcomed respite after a long day of trekking through the sweltering heat of Papua New Guinea.

While it's hard to pinpoint my absolute favorite moments or locations, a few stand out. Isurava, a major battle site along the track, holds an indescribable impact on every Australian aware of the Battle of Kokoda. Whether it's the four pillars symbolizing Endurance, Sacrifice, Mateship, and Courage, the hallowed ground defended by the 39th Battalion, or the heroic story of Private Bruce Kingsbury charging fearlessly against enemy fire, each element resonates deeply.

Brigade Hill offered a view that surpassed any words I could conjure. During a moving service, I couldn't help but imagine the unimaginable hardships endured by those brave soldiers, some as young as myself at the time of the trek (19).

River crossings were a frequent occurrence, especially towards the end of the journey. On one particular day, we crossed eleven rivers. There were a few slips and one close call where I nearly hit my head on a rock. Thankfully, my porter was always by my side, ready to assist if I faltered. I managed to avoid falling into the water, which was a small victory. The porters, truly remarkable individuals, were the unsung heroes of our expedition. I owe my successful completion of the track to my porter, Gordon. He guided me up steps taller than myself, patiently waited during much-needed breaks, and carried my pack containing all my belongings. At day's end, he would set up my tent, ensuring it was protected with a trench to prevent flooding during rain. These porters, descendants of the Fuzzy Wuzzy angels, epitomized compassion and assistance.

During the journey, I crossed paths with some extraordinary individuals who left an indelible mark on my heart. Jason and Dayna became my guiding lights when my grandfather had to be airlifted out due to unforeseen circumstances. Their kindness and support were invaluable, and I will forever be grateful for their presence during that challenging time.

The camaraderie among the trekkers was another highlight of the journey. We formed a tight-knit community, supporting and encouraging each other every step of the way. Whether it was sharing stories, offering a helping hand, or simply sharing a laugh, the bond we formed was unlike any other.

As we reached the final stretch of the track, the overwhelming sense of achievement and pride washed over me. The journey had tested my physical and mental limits, but it had also shown me the depths of my strength and resilience. I had conquered the Kokoda Track, not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.

Kokoda was a transformative experience—a journey of courage and connection. It connected me to the history of my country, to the sacrifices made by those who came before us. It connected me to the land and its breathtaking beauty. And most importantly, it connected me to myself, revealing layers of strength and determination I didn't know I possessed.

As I reflect on my Kokoda experience, I am reminded that life's greatest rewards often lie beyond our comfort zones. It is in pushing ourselves to the limits, in embracing challenges head-on, that we discover our true potential.

Kokoda will forever hold a special place in my heart—a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of connection, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

While COVID is stopping us from trekking at present, we take this opportunity to look back and reflect on the what Kokoda is all about. Here one of our past trekkers looks back on her trip from 2019.

To read Jorgia's story click here