DAY 1 - KOKODA TO HOI

Friday 09 October

The trekkers arrived at Port Moresby International Airport yesterday, where they were warmly welcomed by their Australian guide, Sheree, before being transferred to the 5-star Airways Hotel.

After checking in and settling into their rooms, the group enjoyed some well-earned downtime. A few trekkers took advantage of the hotel’s swimming pool, while others chose to relax with an afternoon nap in preparation for the busy days ahead. That evening, everyone gathered for a pre-trek briefing and dinner. The briefing covered the itinerary, safety procedures, daily expectations and the important historical sites they would encounter along the Kokoda Track. After dinner, the group retired early, knowing that the following morning would bring the beginning of their long-awaited trek.

This morning, the trekkers enjoyed a little extra sleep after their flight to Popondetta was delayed. They made the most of the unexpected free time by enjoying a hot breakfast at the hotel before making the short three-minute journey to Port Moresby’s domestic airport. From there, they boarded their aircraft for the approximately 30-minute flight to Popondetta, travelling across the rugged landscape towards the foothills of the Owen Stanley Ranges.

On arrival in Popondetta, the group travelled into town to purchase additional supplies, snacks and other essentials for the journey ahead. They then boarded a private troop carrier for the drive to Kokoda. Along the way, the trekkers passed several significant locations associated with the Kokoda campaign, including Wairopi, the Kumusi River, Awala, Oivi and Gorari. Each site provided an important introduction to the history of the campaign and offered the group a greater understanding of the battles, movements and sacrifices that took place throughout this challenging region.

After arriving in Kokoda, the group visited the Kokoda Plateau and museum. Here, they learned more about the campaign and discussed the historical significance of the battles fought in and around Kokoda. The visit helped connect the history they had studied during their preparations with the actual landscape in which these events unfolded.

The trekkers were then introduced to their team of local guides and porters, who will support them throughout their journey along the track. Before setting off, the group gathered beneath the famous Kokoda arches for a team photograph, capturing an important moment at the official starting point of their adventure.

From the arches, the trekkers began walking for approximately one hour, passing through the village of Kovelo. They then continued for a further 30 minutes before stopping for a short rest. After the break, the group completed a relatively flat 60-minute section of track and arrived at Hoi, where they paused for a longer rest and prepared themselves for the more demanding terrain ahead.

It had been a long and memorable day, combining challenging walking with some of the most significant historical sites of the entire campaign. With the first major section now behind them, the trekkers could rest, reflect on the experiences of the day and prepare for the challenges that await tomorrow.