DAY 3 TREKKING: ALOLA to VASI

Thursday 08 October

The day began in the village of Alola, where the trekkers packed up and prepared for another challenging stage of their journey along the Kokoda Track. Leaving the campsite, they made their way out of the village before descending towards the creek. The morning offered spectacular views across the valley, with the surrounding mountains rising dramatically on either side and layers of green vegetation stretching into the distance. Despite the difficult conditions underfoot, the scenery provided plenty of encouragement as the group continued onwards.

After crossing the creek, the trekkers faced a short climb before settling into a steady uphill section. The next part of the journey took approximately an hour and a half, with several brief pauses along the way to catch their breath, drink water and regroup. The track was a little slippery with a misty atmosphere across the mountains. Every step required care as the group navigated exposed roots, muddy sections and uneven ground. The weather was great and the track was dry.

Their first major historical stop of the day was the site of a Japanese ammunition dump, located just off the main track. Reaching the area required a sustained effort, but it was well worth the trek. The site served as a powerful reminder of the intensity of the fighting that took place across these mountains and of the vast quantities of supplies that had to be moved through some of the most difficult terrain imaginable.

From the Japanese ammunition dump, the group continued for another 60 minutes before reaching Eora Creek. This provided a welcome opportunity to stop for morning tea, rest tired legs and take in the peaceful surroundings. The creek flowed through the valley, offering a stark contrast to the hardships experienced by the soldiers who fought in the area during the campaign.

Once the break was over, the trekkers resumed their journey with a demanding 30-minute climb towards an Australian ammunition dump. This site contains live grenades and rounds of ammunition, which still remain just off the track. The presence of unexploded ordnance is a sobering reminder of the dangers that continue to exist in this remote region, even decades after the fighting ended. The group took care to remain on the established track and listened closely to the guidance provided by the porters.The group continued to make solid progress, supporting one another through the more difficult sections of the track.

From the ammunition dump, the journey continued across undulating terrain for approximately two and a half hours. The constant succession of short climbs and descents proved tiring, particularly for those already feeling the accumulated effects of several days on the track. However, the group continued steadily towards Templeton’s Crossing, eventually arriving at the waterway for lunch.

Lunch beside the creek was a welcome chance to refuel and relax. The sound of running water and the surrounding rainforest provided a peaceful setting, although everyone knew there was still a demanding section ahead. After lunch, the trekkers faced a tough one-hour climb. The ascent was slow and strenuous, with tired legs making every step more difficult. Once they reached the top, the group stopped to rest and recover before beginning the descent towards the evening’s campsite.

The descent was more enjoyable, offering a pleasant change after the long climb. The track led down through the rainforest towards the creek, and the trekkers arrived at camp at 4pm. They reached Vasi campsite, tired but pleased to have completed another demanding day.

A few members of the group are now well outside their usual comfort zones and understandably exhausted after the distance, steep climbs, rain and challenging conditions. Even so, morale remains strong, and everyone continues to maintain a positive attitude. On arrival, some brave trekkers took the opportunity to wash away the mud in the cold, clear waters of the creek. Others preferred to stay warm and dry, settling in with hot tea, coffee and freshly made popcorn.

It was a long and demanding day, but the group finished it together, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest and the flowing creek. Despite the fatigue, everyone can take satisfaction in another significant achievement on the Kokoda Track.