DAY 2 - DENIKI TO ALOLA - SATURDAY 14 JUNE

A 5am wakeup call as the trekkers spent their first night on the track. They had breakfast and then the first of many “packs on” calls were given in preparation for their first full day of trekking.

They trekked out of the village of Deniki, trekking past the choko vines and the spectacular scenery and sweeping views down the valley on the way to Isurava village. Here they had a break and discussed some history of the 39 Battalion before it was packs on and back again and onto the track. They trekked for another few hours as they made their way to Isurava village. it was here that the 39 Battalion were finally reinforced by the 21 brigade. They had morning tea here and then mage the short 1-hour trek onto Isurava memorial. This War Memorial is located at a significant point on the Isurava battle site which the Kokoda Track bisects. The trekkers inspected Kingsbury’s Rock, the site of the action which earned Private Bruce Steel Kingsbury his Victoria Cross on 29 August 1942. Here they held a moving service at the monument and paid their respects to our returned and fallen soldiers.

They listened to some stories of the campaign of those who made the incredible and ultimate sacrifice, such men as Corporal John Metson, Charlie McCallum and Bruce Kingsbury. After a good break here they then trekked a tough 30 minutes up and another 15 easy on the way to the “Surgeons Stone”. Here they listened to some incredible stories of the campaign. Then they trekked a relatively easier 60 minutes with the track pretty overgrown in places. The weather was great today and although a few are a bit weary they are all in high spirits as they made camp at 4pm. They are now resting and looking forward to dinner and an early night!

MESSAGES: Hey Em, Happy Birthday! Been thinking of you all day. Hope you had a great one! Ken