DAY 3 - ALOLA TO VASI CAMPSITE

Sunday 28 June

Day 3 began with a few weary bodies but high spirits. The group broke camp and set off on a short walk past the Alola village museum before descending for about 45 minutes, taking in magnificent valley views en route to a small creek crossing and a brief rest. They then climbed steadily for several hours to inspect a Japanese ammunition dump, where guides explained the fort’s defensive significance and how the battle to capture it unfolded.

After that discussion the trekkers pushed on another 90 minutes to Eora Creek for morning tea. They refuelled, they shouldered packs for a tough, steep 45‑minute climb, pausing to inspect an Australian ammunition dump containing live grenades and rounds. The group then negotiated roughly 2½ hours of undulating terrain, including several fallen trees across the track, before reaching Templeton’s Crossing for lunch.

The afternoon started with a demanding 30‑minute climb, then a section of rolling track and flats for about an hour before a final 30‑minute descent into Vasi campsite on the far side of the river for night three. Many described today as the toughest so far as the group arrived into camp in good time at 4:00 pm; a handful braved the creek for a cold swim, and now everyone is enjoying popcorn and settling in for dinner.

All reflecting on a day of great conditions and perfect weather.