DAY 2 - DENIKI TO ALOA
Sunday 14 June
The trekkers were up bright and early at 5:00am this morning for breakfast after spending their first night on the Kokoda Track.
Departing Deniki, the group trekked through the choko fields before making their way to the village of Isurava for morning tea. It was here during the Kokoda Campaign that the exhausted soldiers of the 39th Battalion were finally reinforced by troops from the 21st Brigade. The group paused to learn more about this significant chapter of Australia's military history before continuing along the track.
After another hour of trekking, they arrived at the Isurava Battle Site, where they gathered for a moving commemorative service at the famous Four Pillars Memorial—Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice.
The trekkers paid their respects to Australia's returned and fallen servicemen, listening to stories and recordings that brought the campaign to life. Particular attention was given to the sacrifices made by men such as Corporal John Metson, Charlie McCallum, Lindsay Bear, Bruce Kingsbury VC, and many others who fought and died defending Australia during the campaign.
Following lunch at Isurava, the group continued on a short but challenging section of track to the historic Surgeon's Stone, where further stories of the campaign were shared. Among them were moving accounts from veteran Stan Bisset, including memories of his brother, Thomas "Butch" Bisset, and the hardships endured by those who served on the Track.
A number of fallen trees across the trail added an extra challenge throughout the afternoon, requiring the trekkers to carefully negotiate obstacles along the way. Despite this, the group maintained a steady pace helped by great track conditions & bright sunny weather and they completed a relatively comfortable 90-minute trek into tonight's campsite at Alola Village.
The trekkers arrived safely and in great spirits at 3:45pm. This evening they are relaxing, enjoying some popcorn, sharing stories from the day, and reflecting on the history they have experienced before settling in for another night on the Track.
Today was a powerful reminder that Kokoda is far more than a trek—it is a journey through one of the most significant chapters of Australian and Papua New Guinean history.
MESSAGES:
To Maz, Luke, Kaitlyn, Eliza and Kirby, Day two and yes, it is hard but am happy and enjoying the experience. Beautiful people, beautiful scenery and a good group. Have had a tumble already but came out unscathed. History is unbelievable. Hope all goes well Tuesday K I know it will, luv you all and Louie and Kemba - from Gary
To Marion Ella Day 2 of walk everything I expected and more love you - Greg Ella
Esposa Hermosa – it’s me, your crazy husband. Everything is going amazing – I’m loving this… I might just find a village and live here ha-ha. Bag is too heavy but adds to the experience. Love you. – from Joel
Georgia, rolling into camp 2 without any rain so far which is pretty great! Hope I have a good sleep tonight - haven’t really sleep last two nights - ❤️Bek
