DAY 9 - UA ULE CREEK TO OWERS' CRN

Sunday 13 September

Final Day: From Ua Ule Creek to Owers’ Corner

The trekkers were treated to some wonderful singing by their porters last night. This morning, they were straight back into the creek, crossing it half a dozen times over the course of an hour as they made their way towards the base of Imita Ridge.

After a short rest, the group began the one-hour climb up Imita Ridge. Many trekkers described it as the toughest climb of the entire trek, and everyone welcomed a well-earned rest at the top.

They then descended Imita Ridge for an hour before continuing for another hour towards the village of Goodwater. After a morning-tea break and some time to rest, they continued to Dump 66, where they read the famous poem “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels,” written there by Sapper Bert Beros.

The group then trekked for another hour to the Goldie River. There, they gathered arm in arm to reflect on the past eight days and the extraordinary journey they had shared.

With their packs on for the final time, the trekkers completed the last 45 minutes of the Kokoda Track. The final 15 minutes were exposed to the weather as they made their way towards the arches at Owers’ Corner, marking the end of their trek.

They are now enjoying a well-earned barbecue with cold soft drinks, before travelling to Bomana War Cemetery. Tonight, they will join their porters and guides for a celebration dinner at the five-star Airways Hotel. Tomorrow, they will begin their journey home.