Join the Kokoda Challenge!

Fancy trudging through mud for hours in wet shoes, clothing and high humidity while carrying 10kg on your back?

If so, the Kokoda Track awaits!

Our tireless trek leader Bernie Victory is forming a team for his 14th crossing of the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea, and is holding an information night on Wednesday, November 23, for interested walkers.

“This is their chance to come along and find out whether Kokoda is potentially something they want to subject themselves to,’’ he says.

The gruelling 96km, eight-day trek next September will potentially be Bernie’s last, although he has said that before!

Team members are required to train every weekend for at least nine months in preparation, and be agile, fit and determined enough to encounter long days on foot in trying conditions.

They must also study Kokoda’s rich history which is celebrated on the Track each day.

“It’s the most fun you can have being miserable,’’ Bernie says.

“While it’s muddy and difficult, one of the surprises people get is just how beautiful it is.

“The scenery is spectacular and the experience is one they’ll never forget. ’’

The Kokoda Challenge will raise money for the Kolbe Cottage renovation which provides children with a disability over the age of 5 with a welcoming and fun environment for short term respite stays.

This year’s trekkers raised $70,000.