Their legend has stayed in the Australian psyche with efforts to retrace their steps a pilgrimage for many Aussies.
The Kokoda Track winds through steep mountain ridges and valleys with long and demanding climbs and descents.
The dense tropical rainforest often has limited visibility, muddy, slippery tracks and fast-flowing rivers and creeks.
The high humidity and heavy rainfall create hot, wet and uncomfortable conditions up to an altitude of 2,000m.
Each year, students from years 10-12 at Yarrawonga College P-12 have the chance to apply to retrace the steps of the Australian soldiers and traverse the Kokoda Track, and ClubMulwala has recommitted to its support for their adventure, with a donation of $15,000 plus $3,000 in kind.
CEO Andrew Patterson said the program helped to build young leaders and preserve the knowledge of those who’d given their lives to protect our country.
Andrew has never done the trek himself but says it’s a great initiative by the school, and the club, and something that sits squarely with the RSL ethos.
“Seeing the young people speak at our Anzac Day service, and seeing how passionate and how aware they are of our history ... that's just so reassuring,” he said.
“The Kokoda Track plays such an important role in our history, and Papua New Guinea is our closest neighbour as well … I’d love to do it one day.”
“The Kokoda Track plays such an important role in our history, and Papua New Guinea is our closest neighbour as well … I’d love to do it one day.”
New school principal, Stuart Bott hasn’t experienced the Kokoda Track either but said he feels privileged to be able to give the kids that opportunity and very grateful to ClubMulwala for its ongoing support.
“A donation like this opens up the opportunity for many kids to have that opportunity,” Mr Bott said.
The program is open to students from years 10-12, after a rigorous application process, which in itself develops leadership skills.
It starts with an information night and expressions of interest, which could attract up to 40 students.
When the applications open, students need to demonstrate in writing their knowledge of the history of Kokoda, about themselves and why they want to join the trek.
The next round is a five-minute prepared speech, and then an impromptu speech, so event the application process isn’t for the faint-hearted.
Once selected, students are also responsible for fundraising towards the $6,000 plus cost per student.
It’s the support of ClubMulwala that gives them the headstart needed as they work towards a once-in-a-lifetime experience they are unlikely to ever forget.
What is the Kokoda Track?
The Kokoda Track is a 96-kilometre trail through the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea.
In 1942, Japanese troops landed on Papua New Guinea's northern coast and advanced south along the Kokoda Track to capture Port Moresby, threatening Australia.
Outnumbered and poorly supplied, Australian soldiers fought a determined defensive campaign in extremely difficult conditions.
Initially they retreated, but after reinforcements were sent, a counter-offensive was launched, eventually pushing the Japanese back across the mountains.
The Kokoda campaign is considered one of Australia's most significant military victories and highlighted the courage, endurance and sacrifice of Australian troops, as well as the vital assistance provided by Papua New Guinean carriers, often called the "Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels," who helped transport supplies and care for wounded soldiers.
