DAY 7 - OFI CREEK TO GOLDIE RIVER

Tuesday 27 October

The group left Ofi Creek, this morning and with everyone rested, it was time to tackle one of the most demanding climbs of the entire trek—the ascent of Ioribaiwa Ridge. This was made much harder by the rain which continued all day and after trekking this ridge, the trekkers appreciate how lucky they have been with the weather. Ioribaiwa Ridge is a historic location and marks the furthest point reached by the main Japanese advance towards Port Moresby before they were eventually forced to retreat. As the trekkers summited the ridge, they reflected on the extraordinary determination and courage of both Australian and Japanese soldiers who fought in this unforgiving terrain.

Upon reaching the top of Ioribaiwa Ridge, the group left their packs behind and took a short 15-minute walk to inspect a well-preserved Japanese ammunition dump and a series of Japanese slit trenches. These fascinating wartime relics provided another powerful reminder of the fierce fighting that took place throughout this region and offered an incredible insight into the conditions endured by those who served here more than 84 years ago.

After returning to the main track, the trekkers descended the ridge before arriving at Ioribaiwa Village and a chance to rest before another demanding section. They then continued with a 45-minute descent to Ua Ule Creek. After a short break, they began one of the more unique sections of the Kokoda Track, crossing the creek more than a dozen times as they carefully made their way towards Ua Ule Creek Campsite. A rest here before they trekked back into the creek for an hour on the way to Imita ridge. This was the final withdrawal location of the Australian Army. After summiting this they then headed down to Goodwater on the way to the Goldie River for their final night on the Kokoda track. They are now all enjoying a swim and looking forward to a sleep in before the final push tomorrow morning.