Dark Takes on The Kokoda Track

Dark Horse · 14-04-2005, 11:37 PM

It's taken three years since the first discussions were initiated about the trip between three comrades. An ultimatum. Yes, we are going to do this - a trip that will most probably never be attempted again, memories of which will, however, long remain.

Ninety six kilometres in a straight line. One of the major turning points in the Second World War. A place, in fact, a bastard of a place. A place of many victories and losses, that go beyond words to describe. A place that commands respect, and to all that fought in it. My hat goes off to all those who were involved in the Papua New Guinea campaign.

To the present day, in memory and a tribute to all those that served in war, myself and a group of fellow workmates will commence our trek on April 16th, concluding on April 24th. Following the Australian advance, the trek begins at Owen's Corner, concluding at the Kokoda airfield. Hopefully by the tenth day we will be at the Port Moresby cenotaph commemorating Anzac Day.

Prior training regimes included such walks as from Circular Quay to Manly and also The Six Foot Track in The Blue Mountains. However I don't think that matters much, labouring across the Owen Stanleys.

I fly out of Sydney tomorrow and should arrive at Port Moresby courtesy of the 'roo and Scare Niugini (Air Niugini).

Anyhow, along with some other items I will be carrying - and probably regret carrying (this I will NOT regret carrying - as it is a prize find) is the following:

Probably of more significant to those up on their war history but the bright green band around the slouch hat that I will be wearing is the pugaree that represents 1st Battalion - a military tradition that dates back to The Great War.

1st Battalion pugarees are not easy to find and they can only be hand made. It's definitely an honour to also wear this pugaree on the trek with the Anzac Day finish at Kokoda in remembrance of all who made sacrifices for what we have today.

I'm due back on the evening of April 27th if I make it back! I still can't believe I'm doing this.

At the going down of the sun
We will remember them

Lest We Forget

Steve_T · 15-04-2005, 02:16 AM

Awesome stuff mate, that'll be a great trip. I'd love to do that someday also.

All the best with it.

Steve.

Donut Queen · 15-04-2005, 03:05 AM

I have so much respect for anyone that attempts this track and I think it'll be a life changing time. Congratulations and good luck!

rag top · 15-04-2005, 04:32 AM

All the best for the trip, all those that I know who have done it rate it highly; don't forget to take the camera!

XA-Coupe · 15-04-2005, 07:43 AM

I recently read the book Kokoda and it was very enlightening. I think you will find it extremely hard going but ultimately rewarding.
Make sure you take good care of yourself, on occasions people still die on that track from heat stress and such.

blue fairy · 15-04-2005, 07:50 AM

Good Luck.

May you get everything out of the journey that you are looking for.

LuvinmyEB · 15-04-2005, 08:39 AM

I admire what you're doing. It's something I had on my 'to do' list before I got diabetes which now makes it too risky unfortunately.

I remember watching some of our Australian celebrities doing it a while back and just how emotional and physically challenging it was for them.

As arduous as the journey may be, I'm sure you will conquer the trail and have memories that will stay with you forever.

I'll be thinking of you at dawn on the 25th as well as the others that served and died for us.

Stay safe and good luck!

TIKFD6 · 15-04-2005, 08:14 PM

Hope you have a good safe time Jim, i know how youve been looking forward to dtaking the trek.

I am just ****ed that its something that i will never be able to do, due to my injuries.

Talk to you in a few weeks mate.
;)

MrSparkle · 15-04-2005, 08:37 PM

Yes here here on all of the above. Trips like that really add something to your life. Now I'm jealous!

Dark Horse · 27-04-2005, 08:12 PM

I've just returned home.

Damage Report:
Left Achille's Tendon sprung so taut I could play it like a ukelele;
Two screwed knees.

Yes I did finish the trek, it is something I recommend to anyone wishing to undertake it.

It is the most heart felt, challenging and scariest of experiences I have ever encountered. I've been elected to write about my groups' experiences and will no doubt share those with you once I have this finalised.

Laminge · 27-04-2005, 08:15 PM

Welcome Back

What a bloody effort, well done

Am really looking foward to the details and pics

Twisted · 27-04-2005, 08:19 PM

Welcome back Darkie!

Awesome effort mate, its something ive wanted to do for along time but medical reasons keep me from it. Definatey lookin forward to hearing all about it. Well done mate!