DAY 2 - KOKODA TO ALOLA
Thursday 22 October
After spending their first night on the Kokoda Track, the trekkers were up early for breakfast before joining together for the first battle cry of the trek. Energised and ready for the day ahead, they departed camp, continuing along the track, making their way towards Deniki & up the infamous hill. Although it was only the first hill of the trek it quickly reminded everyone that the Kokoda experience would be both physically and mentally demanding. The climb up Deniki Hill tested a few and more than a couple were already wondering exactly what they had signed up for.
Deniki holds great historical significance as the site of the 39th Militia Battalion’s first defensive position after withdrawing from Kokoda. Standing in this location gave the group an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary challenges faced by the Australian troops who fought and endured across this unforgiving terrain during the Second World War.making their way past the choko vines while taking in the incredible views and spectacular scenery stretching down the valley on their journey towards Isurava Village.
The group trekked through Deniki on the way to Isurava Village and upon arriving they stopped for a well-earned morning tea while learning more about the Kokoda Campaign and the significant events that unfolded in this area. From there, it was back onto the track for another hour of trekking. The track levelled out for a short time, which was a welcome relief before the group arrived at the Isurava Battlefield Memorial.
The Isurava War Memorial is located at one of the most significant points on the Isurava battle site, with the Kokoda Track passing directly through it. The trekkers spent time exploring this sacred location, including visiting Kingsbury's Rock, the site of the courageous action that earned Private Bruce Steel Kingsbury the Victoria Cross on 29 August 1942.
It was a particularly emotional experience as the trekkers gathered at the memorial to hold a moving service, taking time to reflect and pay their respects to the brave men and women who served, and especially to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Following the service, the group tackled a challenging 30-minute climb to Cons Rock, where they listened to a podcast by Stan Bisset, providing a powerful first-hand perspective on the Kokoda Campaign. They then continued for another 90 minutes before arriving at Alola Village for their second night on the track.
Alola played a vital role during the Battle of Isurava, serving as the major logistics support base and first aid post for Australian forces. The weather today was a little cloudy although the sun did come out for a bit giving the trekkers a taste of what hot conditions could be like. The weather was perfect for trekking and the track dry helping the trekkers make it safely into camp in great time at 3pm local PNG time. They are all in high spirits after another rewarding day and are now enjoying some well-earned popcorn, looking forward to dinner, and reflecting on the experiences of the day while wondering what tomorrow has in store.
Messages from the track:
1. Sam - Hey Clare, hope all is well. Just arrived at camp, no reception, love you.
2. Connor B - Happy belated Anniversary, missing you & the girls, love you.
3. Craig - Hope all is well, doing it tough but having a great time.
4. Darren - I’ve had some dumb ideas, this is the dumbest (mentioned with a smile ear to ear, covered in sweat)
5. Jack - not as hot as the Darwin steps!
6. Bowls Snr: Not sure if you realise, I’m not home at the moment. I’ll be back next week.
7. Nick: Missing max & you! Love you.
