DAY 6: KAGI VILLAGE TO MENARI - THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER

The trekkers began the day with a short walk out of Kagi Village, passing the local church and airfield before tackling what is widely regarded as the steepest descent on the entire Kokoda Track. The challenging downhill section led the group to a creek crossing, where they paused to refill water bottles and prepare for the next climb.

After crossing the creek, the trekkers faced a short but intense "calf-burning" ascent to the top of the ridge. Once over the climb, the track eased somewhat, and the group enjoyed a relatively gentle 30-minute walk through open country before stopping for a break beneath a gum tree.

From there, it was another 30 minutes to Efogi, perched high on the hillside overlooking the valley below. The trekkers enjoyed morning tea while taking in the spectacular views down to Efogi Village before making the descent into the village itself. While there, they visited the local museum and market, gaining further insight into the history and culture of the communities that call the Kokoda Track home.

Leaving Efogi behind, the group began the long and demanding ascent towards Brigade Hill via Mission Ridge. Along the way, they stopped at Mission Ridge to discuss the events of the Kokoda Campaign and the significance of the fierce fighting that took place in the area.

The trekkers then continued to Brigade Hill, where they gathered for a moving and emotional ceremony in honour of the Australian soldiers who fought and sacrificed so much during the campaign. Standing on this historic battlefield provided a powerful opportunity to reflect on the courage, determination and endurance displayed by those who served here in 1942.

Following lunch, the group continued along the track before beginning a long 2½-hour descent into Menari. It was a hot day & many found the downhill trek surprisingly challenging, but everyone persevered and arrived safely at camp in good spirits.

Menari holds a special place in Kokoda history. It was here that the exhausted soldiers of the 39th Battalion were withdrawn from the campaign following the Battle of Brigade Hill. These brave men, later known as the "Ragged Bloody Heroes," were physically exhausted and close to collapse after months of relentless fighting and hardship. Many would later return to the front lines to fight at Buna and Gona, continuing their remarkable service.

The trekkers reached camp at 4:10pm & are settled in at Menari and are enjoying a well-earned rest after another challenging and rewarding day on the track. With another hot meal and good night's sleep ahead, they continue to make excellent progress across one of the world's most iconic trekking routes.