I'm… Introducing Myself?

[Francois Lachon]

Heya everyone,

I'm quite young, but I've been rapt in the Kokoda Trail ever since my Father told me all about it. My Great Grandfather was a part of the battle and I came across this Forum while looking for info on him… I believe on July 23 he was Warrant Officer McWatters.

I've loved reading lots of info on the Kokoda Trail and I know quite a lot already, but I decided to join the Forum to find out more info and… Well, try and convince my Family that a trip to the Kokoda Trail is a great idea.

I hope that it'll be nice here on the Forum, (Who am I kidding? Course it will be nice… Hehe)

-Andy

[Boss Meri]

Hi Andy, welcome to our Kokoda forum. Do you mind me asking how old you are? During my time running trekking tours there have been heaps of families who have walked with us over the Kokoda Trail or as some say, Kokoda Track.

If you should ever consider it seriously, please search around our website as lots of people who have walked have offered sound sensible advice which you could take on board to help your family prepare for such a trek.

bye for now

Gail (pen name 'Boss Meri')

[Francois Lachon]

Of course I don't mind you asking how old I am… Although, some people have been surprised in the Past. I'm 14, and after living for 7 years in a bush town… Haha, well, I'm sure you can guess.

If we ever seriously get the time to walk the Kokoda Trail I will definitely read some of the other things, which I shall try and do as often as possible. I hope that one day it'll happen, always gotta have a hope…

Andy

[Fluppy]

Hi Andy,

Welcome to the forum. You will find this place absolutely full of fantastic information. Don't ever give up on your dreams. I was 14 when I first wanted to trek Kokoda as I had a fascination with all things military. This led to a deeply humble respect for our soldiers who fought for the freedom we now have today. I joined up in my local army cadets and my respect intensified.

I am now 30 and finally making my teenage dream come true. My husband and I will be trekking Kokoda in October this year. Hold onto your dreams – anything is possible if you truly believe in it.

fluppy

[Geoff Hardie]

Hi Andy,

You are at an ideal age to commence preparation to walk the Track, although I would not recommend before at least age 16. This opinion is based upon the experience of my own two sons in the early 1990's during hiking treks with the Boy Scout movement at ages 13 to 15. Whilst they coped well carrying packs up to 18kg for 3 and 8 days in the Tasmania and Victorian High Country, a 8-9 day trek over the Kokoda Track is far far different, even if the services of a Porter are used which is highly recommended. The potential for long term damage to developing bones of young children by carrying excessive weight needs full discussion with your Doctor.

Of course many things have to fall into place as you have already noted. I would imagine Finance is an important issue for one so young and of course, if your parents wish to join you, their own personal fitness is important.
Like you, I am a direct descendant (Son)of a World War 11 Digger who served on the Kokoda Track and walking the Track with my two sons in 2007 was a most rewarding and emotional experience. I am certain you will experience the same emotion when visiting this beautifull part of PNG.

Kind regards and best wishes for you future.

Geoff Hardie.

[Lincondown]

I am new member here. After going through this forum. I can't simply resist myself in registering here. Hope will have a great time in future.

[Author]

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