DAY 8 - NAURO TO UA ULE CREEK

Friday 03 July

The day began with a tough 60‑minute climb out of camp that got everyone’s lungs working. From the summit the group enjoyed spectacular views across the Maguli Ranges — the same ridges from which the Japanese reportedly watched the lights of Port Moresby. A long, occasionally slippery descent followed, then a 90‑minute stretch to a short break.

They dropped down to Ofi Creek, where the kids enjoyed a refreshing swim, then climbed briefly to the morning tea campsite. Refreshed, the trekkers tackled one of the day’s hardest climbs — Ioribaiwa Ridge, the final advance of the main Japanese force. At the ridge top they left packs to inspect a Japanese ammunition dump and slit trenches, then returned to the track and descended to Ioribaiwa village for lunch.

After lunch the group hiked down to Ua Ule Creek for a quick rest, then crossed the creek a dozen times on the run into Ua Ule Creek campsite, arriving with spirits high at 3:00pm — many can hardly believe tomorrow is their last day on the track. Everyone is excited for Imita Ridge and the final push to Owers’ Corner.