Adventure Kokoda

Important Questions

Trekkers have recently died on Kokoda - how do I minimise any risk if I decide to trek?

Make sure you trek with an operator who has a leader trained in First Aid and that he carries a SATELLITE PHONE and a VHF radio. If your group is led by a PNG local guide ask to make a call on the satellite phone to test it before you commence your trek. Check the battery power and the dialtone. If it doesn't work - don't go!

IF THEY DO NOT HAVE A SATELLITE PHONE IN YOUR GROUP YOU ARE RISKING YOUR LIFE because they will not be able to register a call for help if you get in trouble. The trek operator you choose should also have a 24 hour emergency rear link in Port Moresby.

From Charlie Lynn:

'The young woman who died on the track in April was trekking with a dodgy operator led by a local guide. The guide was not trained in remote area first aid and did not have a satellite phone. They sent a crumpled message to me via a PNG guide but we were 7 hours trekking time away and heading in the opposite direction. I used my satellite phone to call the number on the note but their contact was not available.

'I called our Adventure Kokoda rear link in Port Moresby but there was nothing we could do because we did not have a name; details of any travel insurance policy (essential in PNG); or information on her exact position (also essential in PNG).

'Regretably, the young woman died later that night.'

Is the Military History of the Kokoda campaign important to you?

Trek operators who specialise in the military history of the Kokoda campaign engage professional ex-army trek leaders. These leaders have studied military history, strategy and tactics extensively throughout their careers and have long associations with ex-service organisations and Kokoda veterans. Some use their expertise for corporate team development while others focus on the historical aspects of the Kokoda campaign. 39th on Parade at Menari

Operators who specialise in 'eco-tourism' generally use 'Kon-Tiki type tour leaders' with ukulele playing guides! These follow the easier but more congested eco-tourist route across the Owen Stanley Range - while they bypass most of the military history they do have some great ukulete led sing-sings.

Adventure Kokoda trek leaders are expert in the military history of the Kokoda campaign - its all we do! The political and military strategy of the Kokoda camaign and the tactics of all battles that took place across the wartime trail are presented and discussed in great detail with our trekkers. Our trek leaders have no equal in these areas.

Our trek leaders are also experienced in remote area first aid and are equipped with satellite phones and VHF radios for use in emergencies. The company has a 24 hour rear link in Port Moresby for emergency situations.

What is the difference between the 'wartime trail' and the 'Kon Tiki (eco-tourist) track'?

The 'wartime campaign trail' follows the 'footsteps of the brave' and encompasses the whole of the Kokoda campaign. This includes the lost battlefields - the famous 'golden staircase'; the fire support base at Lake Myola 1; the logistic support base and casualty clearing station at Lake Myola 2; and the eastern side of the Yodda Valley which was defended by the 53rd and 2/16th Battalions. You need to allow 10 days on the track to cover the whole of the Kokoda campaign.

The wartime campaign trail takes 10-days to trek. It is obviously more challenging than the popularbut more congewsted ' eco-tourist track' but it is the most appropriate route for those who wish to learn about - and experience - the Kokoda campaign in its entirety.

The 'Kon Tiki' or eco-tourist track is more popular but a lot more congested - it takes between 6 and 8 days to complete. This route is more suited to those who might not have the physical ability to complete the wartime campaign trail - or who might not be as interested in the military history of the Kokoda campaign. It does take in some of the major battlesites however and does provide Kon Tiki type trekkers with a 'feel' for the campaign.

Trekkers should be clear on what they want to achieve from their commitment to trek Kokoda - the wartime history or a 'Kon Tiki/eco-tourist type trekking experience'. They should then select a trek operator most likely to meet these needs.

One should be wary of a couple of dodgy pretenders who give the impression they have a military background - a closer examination of the small print will reveal they have never served in either the regular or reserve forces.

If you go with a specialist eco-trekking or Kon Tiki type company ensure you choose a reputable operator with leaders trained in first-aid and equipped with satellite phones, VHF radios and a reliable rear-link.

 

Why trek with Adventure Kokoda is best answered by a recent female trekker . . .

'It started with our usual Saturday morning sojourn to Chelsea. This time however, as we walked passed an empty shop, we noticed that Personal Gym Trainers were moving in. Sparking our interest, we read their information on the window. Among their list of achievements and goals was the statement “Training for the Kokoda Trail”. After reading this, Martin turned to me and said “you could do that”, and my reply was “I would love to”! “Well then”, he said, “you better make enquiries”. My incredulous “are you serious” was greeted by “of course”.

'And so my 15 week journey began. “Kokoda”, Googled on the internet brings up a myriad of sites and links, but it didn’t take me long to locate “Adventure Kokoda”, and to decide that they were the people that I would travel with. My first reason was because of the Historical content of the trek, - we would be following “In the footsteps of the brave”, retracing the battle of retreat, and the various battle stands and abandond armaments etc. Secondly, the strong emphasis on safety (which was paramount to Martin), was not biased just on what Adventure Kokoda offered, but made you well aware that whoever you trekked with – there was certain criteria and procedures that were essential. And lastly (this appealed to me most), was the financial and practical support that Adventure Kokoda gave to the different villages that we would be passing though . . . click here to read of her remarkable journey.

Adventure Kokoda is a specialist Kokoda trekking company. We have been leading groups over the Owen Stanley Range for 18 years and have the most experienced trek leaders operating on the Kokoda Trail. These include:

  • Major Charlie Lynn. A Vietnam Veteran who has been leading treks across the track for the past 16 years - he has made more than 50 crossings of the track. Charlie established Adventure Kokoda in 1991 - a specialist Kokoda Trekking Company with professional trek leaders who are expert in expedition leadership and the history of the Kokoda campaign.
  • Major Chad Sherrin MM. A Vietnam war hero who was awarded a Military Medal for bravery during the war. After his service in Vietnam Chad was posted to the Army Jungle Training School at Canungra where he was an expert instructor. He is also an expert on weapons and ammunition used by both the Australian and Japanese forces. Chad has led more than more than 30 expeditons across the track.
  • Sergeant Martin Josselyn. A former infantry soldier who qualified for selection with the SAS during his service. Martin is from 'the bush' and is an expert on the Kokoda campaign.
  • Commodore Simon Hart. Simon had a distinguished Naval career which included command of two frontline battle-ships - HMAS Hobart and HMAS Brisbane. Simon is also an expert bushman and passionate advocate of the Kokoda campaign.
  • Lieutenant-Colonel Rowan Tracey. Rowan was the Brigade Sergeant Major of his class at the Royal Military College in Duntroon. He graduated as an officer in the Armoured Corp and later transferred to Ordnance where he specialised in higher level logistics. During his distinguished career he served with the PNG Defence Force and is fluent in Tok-Pisin.
  • Colonel Mike Beckingham. A former army colonel and Chief Executive Officer of The Australian Rural Leadership Program. Mike now works with indigenous communities in the Kimberley region of Western Australia developing local leadership programs.
  • Lieutenant-Colonel Ron Beattie. Ron is a graduate of the Royal Military College, Duntroon. During his 21 years service in the Australian Army he completed two tours of active duty in Vietnam and held command positions at platoon, company and battalion level. Ron later served on the Directing Staff at the prestigious Army Command and Staff College.
  • John Nalder. A great bushman who used to work for Aussie icon, Steve Irwin. John is an Emergency Services trainer with extensive experience in remote area 1st Aid. He has a passionate interest in the history of the campaign and a detailed knowledge of each battle site. John recently featured on a television documentary with the ABC Compass Program when he led a group of disadvantaged young people across the track as part of the Adventure Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge.
  • Peter Davis. Peter has been trekking Kokoda for the past six years. He is currently studying for a PhD in Military History with the Australian Defence Force Academy. Peter also accompanies the Army History Unit to Papua New Guinea to investigate issues of interest regarding the campaigns in New Guinea during WW2. He has recently climbed Mt Victoria and explored the area to the west of the Kokoda track. Peter is a committed Rotarian and has worked throughout PNG on village aid projects.
  • Gabrielle Chan. Former political journalist with The Australian. Author of 'War Diaries' and currently writing a book on Australian war journalists who reported on the Kokoda campaign from along the track.
  • Bernie Rowell. Bernie has completed more than 20 crossings of the Kokoda Trail as a Deputy Trek Leader with Charlie Lynn, Chad Sherrin and Simon Hart. Bernie is passionate about the Kokoda campaign and the culture of the Koiari and Orokaiva people who live along it.

All Adventure Kokoda Trek Leaders are qualified in first aid, emergency evacuation, communications and expedition leadership. The following feedback is typical of the reports we get about them:

'Dear Chad,

I would like to thank you again for making my experience of the Kokoda Track extra special.  The planning and preparation that Adventure Kokoda assiduously ensures was evident throughout; however I know from years in business, that without talented execution, plans and preparation can and do go awry.  Although I had not thought too much of its importance prior to the trek, I soon realised how lucky we were to have leaders with significant military experience and knowledge.  You were able to take us to places others would not see and to convey an authoritative insight into each of the battles so that a real appreciation (for a non military person) was gained of how the campaign unfolded and why.  My highlight was the dawn service at Isurava.  It was such a moving experience and will stay with me forever.

Once again thank you for a most unique, wonderful and moving experience'.

Peter Bennett - Trekker


GENERAL TREKKING QUESTIONS :


How fit do you need to be?

There were more than 50 evacuations from along the Kokoda Trail in 2008. Kokoda is not for those whose fitness is doubtful.

You will need to be physically fit and free of any medical ailments to attempt the trek. You will need a medical clearance from a Medical Doctor to certify that you have had a full medical check-up and that you are capable of undertaking an arduous trek in a remote mountainous tropical environment in a developing country.

Unfortunately some doctors don't understand how difficult the trek is and will give you the benefit of doubt. On a recent trek we had a participant who was cleared by his doctor but only lasted 40 minutes on the first day and had to be evacuated.

You should be aware that it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit enough for the challenge.

What sort of physical training and preparation do you need?

If you lead a sedentary lifestyle you will need a minimum of three months physical training and preparation.

You should start with a complete medical check-up then consult with your local gymnasium to prepare a personal training program aimed at increasing your aerobic fitness level. As a guide we recommend you start with minimum of 45 minutes of aerobic activity (walking, power-walking, jogging, cycling, tennis, etc) at least four times per week. You should aim to increase your work rate by ten percent each week after that.

Your training needs to include extensive walking, preferably in a hilly-area, carrying a weighted pack. In the last month of your training you need to be capable of walking at least 10 km daily, carrying 3 to 5 kg more than the weight you expect to carry on your trek.

Do you need to carry your own backpack?

No. You can choose to carry your own backpack if you have trained hard for the trek and are in great physical shape.

Alternatively you can choose to engage a personal carrier to carry your camping gear whilst you carry your own clothing, food, water and medical supplies in a small backpack or you can arrange for a personal porter to carry your backpack with all of your gear.

If you are 55 years or older it is mandatory to engage a Personal Carrier for your trek.

What is the best direction to trek?

If you trek from Owers Corner to Kokoda you follow the footsteps of our young Diggers as they advanced across the Owen Stanleys to meet the Japanese 144th South Sea Islands Regiment.

If you trek from Kokoda to Owers Corner you follow the route of the Australian withdrawal in the face of overwhelming Japanese odds back to the last line of defence on Imita Ridge.

There is no 'best' way to trek Kokoda. The experience is just as powerful in either direction (that is the opinion of Charlie Lynn who has trekked 25 times from Kokoda to Owers Corner and 26 times from Owers Corner to Kokoda).

The difference is the experience and knowledge of your trek leader. If your trek leader has a detailed understanding of the history of the Kokoda campaign you will get maximum value from your trek. If they don't you will be disappointed and will soon realise the savings you made from going 'cheap' are a false economy in more ways than one.

Climate

The temperature on the Kokoda Trail is a constant 29 - 30 degrees Celsius during the day. Humidity is very high however trekkers are protected from direct sunlight most of the time because they are under the jungle canopy. Over the higher party of the Owen Stanley's the temperature can drop to 1 - 2 degrees Celsius during the night.

What is the best time of the year to do the trek?

The best time to trek Kokoda is during the middle of the 'dry' season from August to October. Trekkers can still trek comfortably during the wetter periods provided they are equipped with proper gear.

What size groups do we take?

The average size of our trek groups in 2008 was 20.

What sort of meals do we provide during the trek?

We are the only operator to provide fresh meals along the trail. We have trained our Niugini guides to prepare, cook and serve meals and this has proved to be a most attractive option to trekkers. Life is too short for ration packs!

Our menu includes breakfast cereals, pasta, noodles, biscuits, canned meat and vegetables with potato and rice, tea/coffee/hot chocolate etc as standard fare. These are supplemented with tropical fruit and fresh vegetables from villages along the Trail. Click here to view our daily menu.

Do you need to bring any additional food?

Most trekkers bring some of their favourite snacks to nibble on between meals during the day. These include biscuits, chocolate bars, jelly beans, etc. Try and avoid too many dried fruit and nut mixes as they are heavy and can be a bit hard on the digestive system. Your daily snack pack should not exceed 150 grams.

Do we trek at night?

No - Adventure Kokoda trek itineraries are planned to allow trekkers to reach their campsites in the afternoon. This allows time for trekkers to bathe, have a look around the village area and meet the locals.

Having said that there will be times when some or all of the trek group might arrive later that normal for examplewhen a trekker is injured along the way, or somebody requires an emergency evacuation, or a creek is flooded. Delays for contingencies such as these might result in some trekking at night.

What does the trek cost?

Is the price 'all inclusive'?

Yes - Adventure Kokoda treks include all accommodation, meals, transport, trek fees, etc. The price also includes the provision of a backpack and/or daypack and your own tent.

You will find that some trek operators offer much cheaper treks - you need to check the small print to find out if there are any 'hidden extras' - which is often the case. If you have to pay for additional items or 'hidden extras' such as accommodation and meals in Port Moresby, airfares to/from Kokoda, personal camping equipment, etc then any saving on price can prove to be a false economy. Make sure you check the fine print with the tour operator you choose.

How much should you budget for 'Hidden Extras'?

The following list is an indicative guide of the cost of 'hidden extras' to budget for:

  • International return airfare Sydney - Port Moresby - $1,100
  • Two nights accommodation in Port Moresby - $500
  • Meals in Port Moresby - $100
  • Backpack - $ 250 - $350
  • Tent - $180 - $300

If your trek operator does not have a public liability insurance policy then you will need to arrange for your own cover. This is an essential requirement but will be a difficult and expensive exercise to arrange on an individual basis.

Does our trek leader have a satellite phone?

Yes he does. The VHF Radio network can sometimes be down for extended periods. The only way to communicate in such situations is with an emergency satellite phone. In recent years our groups have had to arrange for emergency evacuations of trekkers using our satellite phone. One distressed trekker had been left behind at a bush campsite with the promise they would get help as soon as they reached Kokoda because they didn't carry a sat phone. He was greatly relieved when we arrived and arranged for his evacuation.

Does our trek leader have a VHF Radio with a rear link to Port Moresby?

Yes he does. This is an essential safety item. If your trek leader doesn't have one then you would be foolish to go with them. Is your trek leader qualified in first-aid? Does your trek leader have a group 1st Aid kit? You should have your own personal 1st Aid Kit but there should also be a kit for the group.

Do we camp in village guesthouses or tents?

We provide a personal tent for each trekker. Our tents are fully screened and provide protection from malarial mosquitos, leeches, cockroaches and other creepy-crawlies.

Most of the campsites along the Trail now have a guesthouse built from basic bush materials. These offer shelter from the elements but they don't have any privacy or screened protection from malarial mosquitos, leeches, cockroaches, etc! There is also no protection from the inevitable snorer that seems to exist in every group!

For personal protection, privacy, comfort and convenience our guides will erect your tent each night.

How do we dispose of rubbish along the Track?

Adventure Kokoda has a strict policy of carrying our rubbish off the track. All rubbish is collected by our PNG guides and carriers from our campsites and carried off the track for disposal.

What protocols should you observe along the Track?

The villages along the Trail are Seventh Day Adventists. They are vegetarian, don't drink alcohol and strictly observe their Sabbath between 4.00 PM on Friday and 4.00 PM on Saturday each week. They also have two church services in each village each day - one at 6.00 AM and one at 6.00 PM. Trekkers are asked to respect these religious protocols.

What about other protocols in villages along the Track?

Each village has a designated area for trekkers to camp. They also have dedicated toilets for trekkers. Your guides will identify these areas for you.

There are also separate bathing areas for males and females. To avoid embarrassment you should ask your guides to show you where they are. Ladies should wear a sarong to their bathing area.

What type of accommodation do we have in Port Moresby?

Security and service are our main consideration in Port Moresby. Our Kokoda Campaign groups stay at 4-star hotels which include the Crowne Plaza, Gateway, Ela Beach, the Islander Holiday Inn or Loloata Island Resort. Our 39th Battalion Treks stay at the Sogeri Lodge on the first night and a hotel in Port Moresby on the last night.

What about personal security in Papua New Guinea?

You should not have any worries if you are travelling with a reputable trek operator who utilizes a secure hotel and pre-arranged transport in Port Moresby.

The same applies for your trek. We use local Koiari and Orokaiva guides from villages along the Trail. They are in constant contact with each other via VHF radio and are fully aware of all other movements along the Trail.

Is the Kokoda Trail Safe?

The Kokoda Trail is a rugged and remote 100 kilometre jungle path across some of the most hazardous terrain most people will ever traverse. The track itself can be quite dangerous with steep jungle clad mountains and swift-flowing rivers/creeks strewn with large rocky boulders. Much of the area is inaccessible by helicopter. Rivers and creeks can rise rapidly after heavy rain in the catchment area and can be dangerous to cross.

If an emergency occurs it is vital that your trek leader be experiended and capable of handling the situation. Ideally they should also be equipped with a satellite phone and VHF radio with a reliable back-to-base line of communication.

As a trekker you need to ensure you are protected with a personal Travel Insurance policy to cover your medical evacuation and treatment costs should you become sick or suffer a personal injury. It is your responsibility to ensure the insurer you select will approve immediate air evacuation from the Kokoda Trail if the call is made by your trek leader.

You also need to ensure the operator you choose to trek with has suitable Public Liability Insurance protection. If they don't have it don't even think about trekking with them.

You should not confuse Personal Travel Insurance (your responsibility) with Public Liability Insurance (trek operator's responsibility).

The current Travel Advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs states:

  • 'We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Papua New Guinea because of the high levels of serious crime.
  • 'Pay close attention to your personal security at all times and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
  • 'Crime rates are high in the capital Port Moresby and in other areas of Papua New Guinea, especially in Lae, Mt Hagen and other parts of the Highland provinces'.

You should check with the latest travel advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs by clicking on the above link. Trekkers on the Kokoda Trail can be vulnerable if they trek in small groups without an experienced trek leader.

Adventure Kokoda only use trek guides and personal carriers from the Koiari and Orokaiva people who live along the track. These are the sons of the famous 'fuzzy-wuzzy angels' who look after our trekkers just as their fathers looked after our diggers.

Our trek leaders are trained in emergency evacuation procedures and are qualified in emergency first aid. They also carry satellite phones and VHF radios with direct links to Port Moresby for use in emergency situations.

Adventure Kokoda is one of the few trekking companies to complete a comprehensive risk assessment of the trek and has been able to secure public liability insurance protection for trekkers as a result. The policy has a limit of A$10 million per claim.

What happens in the event of an emergency?

The situation is assessed by the trek leader. If it is an emergency he will immediately contact the Adventure Kokoda base at Sogeri via satellite phone or VHF Radio. The person in charge of the office will initiate immediate evacuation procedures by telephone with the appropriate emergency authorities in PNG and will advise the Australian High Commission of the details. Immediate action will be taken to move the patient by stretcher to an area accessible by helicopter or to a nearby airfield. The patient will be met on arrival by our representative from Sogeri who will then liaise with the appropriate medical authorities and the Australian High Commission for the most appropriate treatment or further evacuation to Australia if necessary.

What about personal security in Papaua New Guinea?

You should not have any worries if you are travelling with a reputable trek operator who utilizes a secure hotel and pre-arranged transport in Port Moresby.

The same applies for your trek. We use local Koiari and Orokaiva guides from villages along the Trail. They are in constant contact with each other via VHF radio and are fully aware of all other movements along the Trail.

OUR 'FUZZY WUZZY ANGEL' PLEDGE

'To use Adventure Kokoda for the betterment of the villages along the Kokoda Trail and the people of PNG'.


How does Adventure Kokoda operate in PNG?

Adventure Kokoda uses local PNG companies to provide logistic support for our trek operations. Trek guides and porters are provided by a local trekking company, Kokoda Experience PNG and all trek logistics - transport, air charters, meals, etc are provided by Sogeri Enterprise PNG.

How does Adventure Kokoda help villages along the Kokoda Trail?

Adventure Kokoda has a philosophy of 'giving back to the track'. The company has a proud record of funding special projects and assisting the health and education needs of villages along the track. It has:

  • Raised $500,000 for the devastating drought in PNG in 1996 in partnership with the Returned Services League of Australia.
  • Raised $175,000 to complete a strategic plan for the Kokoda Trail to be proclaimed as a National Memorial Park.
  • Established a ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angel Scholarship Program' in partnership with the PNG Kokoda Track Authority to educate 50 village students across the track at boarding schools in Sogeri and Popondetta.
  • Established a 'Kokoda Bursary Program' for Koiari and Orokaiva students to study at the Port Moresby Grammar School.
  •  Raised $15,000 to support the following village schools along the Kokoda track:
    • Nauro Village Community School
    • Menari Primary School
    • Efogi Village Community School
    • Kovovo Primary School
    • Kovello Primary School
    • Alola Village Community School
    • Abuari Village Community School
    • Kokoda Primary School
  • Donated $10,000 to the Kokoda Hospital and $2,500 to the Menari Medical Clinic for medical supplies
  • Raised K4,500 for an emergency operation for a young boy from Hoi Village.
  • Raised $80,000 for Legacy during special fundraising treks in 2005, 2006 and 2007.
  • Raised $10,000 by sponsoring an entrant in the ‘RSL Girl-in-a-Million Quest’ to trek Kokoda in 2006.
  • Sponsored treks for young people from the following organisations:
    • Legacy
    • Father Chris Riley's Youth Off The Streets
    • Youth Insearch
    • Camp Dare
    • Westmead Childrens Hospital
    • The 39th Militia Battalion Association
    • The 39th Combat Support Battalion
  • Donated treks to raise funds for the following organisations:
    • The Kokoda Track Foundation
    • The Humpty Dumpty Foundation
    • The Royal Blind Society
    • The Diabetes Foundation
    • Foodbank in Mt Gambier
    • Lions International

How does Charlie Lynn help PNG and Kokoda?

Charlie worked closely with the PNG Minister for Intergovernment Relations, Sir Peter Barter MP, in having the PNG Kokoda Track Authority established to manage trek operations along the Kokoda track.

In addition to this Charlie has taken the following initiatives to ensure the historical, cultural and environmentat integrity of the Kokoda Trail are protected for future generations:

The following testimonials are indicative of the recognition given to Charlie in his efforts to have the Kokoda Trail properly recognised:

From the National President of the RSL on 27 November 2001:

'Dear Charlie,

I am pleased to advise that the National Executive of the RSL has endorsed the proposal to establish a master plan for development of a Kokoda Track Memorial Park.

Thank you for taking the time to address our National Executive and for the personal effort you have put into promoting this concept.

As we approach the 60th anniverary of the epic battles of the Kokodoa Track, it is appropriate that we honour those who lost their lives there or served their country so valiantly.

Yours sincerely.

Major-General Peter Phillips AO MC''


From the Premier of New South Wales on 12 December 2002:

Dear Charlie,

I've always been impressed by your love of the Track and your determination to ensure its place in the Australian imagination is never lost.

You know better than most that the Kokoda Track isn't just a place where our salvation was won - though we should remember and document and treasure every inch of it. Kokoda's now part of the Australian dreaming, a sacred site.

More than than. The men of Kokoda are among the greatest of heroes in a land that rightly canonises few heroes. And as time slowly steals the survivors from our midst, it's hard to resist thinking that Australians in the not too distant future will look back with almost disbelief at the giants who lived in those days.

Thanks again.

Yours sincerely,

Bob Carr MP

Premier


From The Hon Arthur Somare MP on 21 September 2004:

Dear Mr Lynn,

I write to personally thank you for arranging to meet the members of the PNG Parliamentary Select Committee on the Pacific Economic Community in Sydney last week. We are very grateful for you hosting lunch for us at your beautiful parliament setting.

Your tireless work over the years in promoting Papua New Guinea in Australia and the world is something we are very grateful for and will do everything possible to compliment your efforts in the future. I am pleased that the PNG Tourism Authority has been working closely with you on issues of interest concerning the Kokoda Trail and the promotion of tourism as a vibrant industry in PNG.

I will shortly be bringing to the attention of the Ministry for Works the urgency to upgrade the road leading to Owers Corner in Sogeri area.

It is my hope that our meeting in Sydney has set the foundation for further ehhancement of relations at a personal level between our two countries. I very much look forward to meeting you and your co-workers again when you next visit Port Moresby.

Yours sincerely,

Arthur T. Somare MP

Does Adventure Kokoda have a Code of Conduct for PNG Trek Guides?

Adventure Kokoda provides the following for trek guides and carriers they engage:

  • Daily pay scale as recommended by the Kokoda Track Authority
  • Trek uniform comprising a cap, shirt and shorts
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat
  • Fresh meals
  • First Aid Training for Trek Medics
  • First Aid Kit for Guides and Carriers
  • Transport to and from the track

How does Adventure Kokoda build a bridge between PNG and young Australians?

Adventure Kokoda has:
Raised $80,000 for Legacy during special fundraising treks in 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Raised $10,000 by sponsoring an entrant in the ‘RSL Girl-in-a-Million Quest’ to trek Kokoda in 2006.
Sponsored treks for young people from the following organisations:
. Legacy
. Father Chris Riley's Youth Off The Streets
. Youth Insearch
. Camp Dare
. Westmead Childrens Hospital
. The 39th Militia Battalion Association
. The 39th Combat Support Battalion
Donated treks to raise funds for the following organisations:
. Diabetes Australia
. The Royal Blind SociThe Kokoda Track Foundation
. The Humpty Dumpty Foundation
. Foodbank in Mt Gambier
. Lions International