I am seeking expressions of interest from school community members who wish to complete a Kokoda Track. The prospective dates are April or July 2025 during the school holidays. At this point I am just checking to see if there is enough interest from the school community to put a formal proposal to the Diocese.

The Kokoda Track in PNG is a famous and iconic trek normally completed in 6 to 9 days. The Track itself is 96 km long and goes from Ower’s Corner in the South to Kokoda Village in the North. The track traverses the beautiful and rugged Owen Stanley Mountain Range. This trek provides many challenges to even the most experienced bushwalker, hot and intensely humid during the daytime and on occasions very cold at night with frequent torrential rainfall – this is certainly not for the faint-hearted. However, it is breathtakingly beautiful in parts, with enriching cultural interaction with predominantly the Koiari people and including the Orokaiva people who live closer to the coast at Buna and Gona. This trek is a test of endurance test for anyone who wants to challenge themselves.

Much of the track retraces the steps of Australian soldiers in World War 2. There are relics and obvious signs of the conflict such as weapon pits scattered along the track. We visit and pass through a number of battle sites such as Loribaiwa Ridge, Brigade Hill, Eora/Iora Creek, Isurava and Kokoda. For Australians, these sites hold great cultural and historic significance.

If this trek is approved and if there is enough interest, we will be using a well-known Australian trekking company with a very good safety record. The cost of the trek is approximately $3200. There is approximately a $500 saving as an Australian guide is not required. Return Travel to PNG will be between $700 and $900. For the last 10 years or so trekking companies have suggested you use your own porter to carry your personal gear. This is well worth the cost of the $720 as they will walk with you, set up your gear as well as carrying your pack.

The minimum age for students will be 16 years of age, however, this may be reduced if a student is accompanied by a parent.

Having completed my 14^th trek, I can attest to the fact it is a life altering experience. It is also something which will require training and commitment.

Please provide me your expression of interest by Friday 1^st March by email at david_eke@shalomcollege.com

Mr David Eke
Dean of Student Welfare
david_eke@shalomcollege.com