Jesse has recently joined our Adventure Kokoda leadership team and comes with outstanding credentials. After visiting PNG over 10 years ago he formed a strong connection with the people, culture and history.
Jesse thrives in remote and challenging environments, where adaptability and calm under pressure are essential. A visit to Papua New Guinea over a decade ago sparked a lasting connection with its people, culture, and history.
With an extensive career in the Australian Defence Force, he served as a rifleman with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment before joining the RAAF as a Military Working Dog Handler specialising in explosive detection. During his military career, he deployed on operations to Timor‑Leste and the Middle East.
Jesse holds civilian and military First Aid qualifications and connects easily with trekkers, guiding them with confidence and ease. A natural problem-solver and decisive leader, he brings practical skills and trusted judgment to every adventure.
Luke Bakey
'Adventure Kokoda was exceptionally well-organized, safe, and deeply meaningful.
'Our trek leader, Jesse, was absolutely outstanding. His knowledge of the Kokoda campaign, the terrain, and the local culture brought the entire journey to life in a powerful and moving way. Jesse’s leadership style was both inspiring and supportive.
'Thank you, Jesse and the entire Adventure Kokoda team, for an unforgettable adventure. I couldn’t recommend this experience more highly!'
Ben Quigley
'Wow what an adventure... I didn't really have any expectations prior to leaving for PNG but very early on I realised that this was going to be a truely exceptional life changing experience. It was muddy, hot, wet, extremely tough at times but all of that made for a richer experience. Our guide Jesse White fitted into the group with ease, he sprinkled in the right amount of war time history, stories, poems and was able to capture the emotion of the group. The PNG team were amazing, getting ready to catch you at any stumble and worked tirelessly to assist where they could. We laughed and we cried together - the Dawn Service at Isurava was a morning I will never forget. Thank you Adventure Kokoda.'
Callum Goodall
'WOW!!! I cannot speak highly enough of Adventure Kokoda and our lead guide Jesse White. PNG and the Kokoda Trail is a must do at least once in every Aussie's lifetime. And when you go, you really must go with the pioneers and the unquestionable best! This was without doubt, the most incredible, life changing experience. The dawn service on the second last morning was moving beyond words, and an absolute highlight. My life, and perspective, will never be the same. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Courage. Endurance. Mateship. Sacrifice.'