DAY 9: UA ULE CREEK TO OWERS' CORNER - FRIDAY 03 JULY

The trekkers spent their final night on the Kokoda Track with mixed emotions. There was excitement knowing the finish line was now within reach, but also a sense of sadness and disbelief at how quickly the past nine days had passed. What had seemed like a long and daunting journey at the start had become an unforgettable experience filled with challenge, achievement, friendship and reflection.

The day began with the final 5:00am wake-up call of the trek. After breakfast, the group set off from camp and immediately found themselves back in Ua Ule Creek, crossing the water numerous times over the next hour as they made their way towards the base of Imita Ridge.

Awaiting them was one final major challenge. The climb up Imita Ridge took approximately an hour, and for many trekkers it proved to be the toughest ascent of the entire journey. Despite tired legs and the knowledge that they were nearing the end, everyone dug deep and pushed their way to the top, determined to finish what they had started.

From the ridge, the group descended towards Goodwater Village, where they paused for a well-earned break before continuing on. The next section of the trek led them through to Goldie River, one of the most significant moments of the day.

After crossing the river, the trekkers gathered arm in arm and took time to reflect on the incredible journey they had shared. Together they looked back on the challenges they had overcome, the friendships formed, the lessons learned and the remarkable history they had experienced along the Kokoda Track. It was a powerful and emotional moment that will remain with many for years to come.

With the finish line now close, the group pressed on for the final 45 minutes of trekking. The last 15 minutes, climbing through the heat towards Owers’ Corner, seemed to last forever, but eventually the famous finish line came into view.

Crossing into Owers’ Corner marked the successful completion of one of the world's great treks. Hugs, handshakes, smiles and plenty of photographs followed as the trekkers celebrated an achievement that few people ever experience.

The celebrations have now begun, with the group enjoying cold soft drinks and a well-earned barbecue lunch. However, before returning to Port Moresby, there remains one final and important stop.

The trekkers will visit the Bomana War Cemetery to pay their respects to the servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Papua and New Guinea campaigns. It is a fitting conclusion to a journey that has combined physical challenge with a deep appreciation of Australia's wartime history.

This evening, the group will return to the Airways Hotel Port Moresby for a celebration dinner with their guides and porters—the incredible men and women whose support, encouragement and friendship have helped make the past eight days such a memorable experience.

Congratulations to all trekkers on successfully completing the Kokoda Track. It is an achievement they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.