Hi Derek,I live in Chirnside Park, Melbourne, and incorporated the 1000steps at FTG a few times in my preparation for our Kokoda crossing in 2007 at age 61. This was mainly in respect of my late father, a member of "A" Co. 39th Battalion who of course served on the Kokoda Track during the 2nd WW. Dad was Secretary/Treasurer of the 39th Battalion…[Read more]

A truely great tribute written by Patrick Lindsay on a remarkable and magnificent Australian who will be sadly missed by many.My sincere condolences to Gloria and family members who I have only indirectly come to know through a former work colleague, fellow Kokoda trekker, and current President of the 2/14th Battalion Association, Michael…[Read more]

Shane,Great contributions from Shane and Rocky which I support.A source of information worthy of a look is the website of Kododa Track Foundation. http://www.kokodatrackfoundation.org Good luck with your project.Geoff Hardie

Hi Dave,Thank you for alerting this southerner to this article.As you indicated, I believe Rory has written article with a fair amount of "tongue in cheek". He may very well be one of the lazy Australians who are basically too scared to attempt the Kokoda – Owers Corner crossing and along the way pay their respect to the scarificies made by our…[Read more]

Hi Peter,This plane memorial is located at Popondetta Airport.Cheers, Geoff Hardie

Hi Gail,It was my experience that all locals acting as Porters were always most obliging, courteous and could not do enough to ensure the safety and the very best experience for their Trekker.There is no doubt the wonderful spirit of the "Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels" remains alive and well in the current generation.It was with alarm however to note from…[Read more]

Hi Amanda,Welcome to the forum.You will note from some of my previous posts that I have some very firm views on this subject based upon my life experiences with my own two sons when they were at the same age as your two sons. Other case histories are aalluded too were serious long term health consequences have resulted where young children have…[Read more]

I also extend Seasons Greetings to all and wish everyone best wishes for the New Year.As Lorna alluded too, it is an appropriate time to reflect on how fortunate we in Australia are to live in such a prosperous and stable country.Friends of mine who also keep in touch with PNG affairs reported to me recently, quite disturbing cirtcumstances which…[Read more]

Hi Trisela,Thank you for your support on this subject.I agree that offering encouragement, moral & physical support to your children in all their activities is vital. My wife & I always looked forward to participating in the activities of our children during their formulative years. As young parents, with the benefit of hindsight, some of the…[Read more]

Past growth, prior to recent downturn, in my opinion, was simply not sustaintable without the prospect of further severe track degregation. Inevitably facilities will improve overtime, but hopefully, not too quickly that full scale commercialism takes over. The global financial crisis has obviously been a major contibuting factor in this downturn…[Read more]

There is no doubt some flexibility should have been shown in Kurt's situation.In defence of Jet Star, they acknowledged this aspect after the event and apologised accordingly to Kurt. Before we all come down too hard on budget or any airlines, consider the circumstance if, for example, the whole Australian Wheelchair Basketball team fronted up for…[Read more]

Hi Simone,Like Brian said, your task will not be easy. Our son Stewart, who walked Kokoda with his younger brother and myself in 2007 is also currently working and living in London (since Feb 2009) and may have some suggestions which I will pass on. Provided you have a solid background in overnight hiking back in Australia, a good Gym program…[Read more]

Hi Rob,Along with others I welcome you to the forum and pass on my best wishes with your thesis.I have just received an invitation to the launch of Patrick Lindsay's book "Kokoda Spirit" to be held at, "Ellery Suite" Old Melbourne Observatory, Royal Botanic Gardens, Birdwood Ave (opp The Shrine). 10.30am-11.30 am Tues. 10th November 2009.The book…[Read more]

My heartiest congratulations go to Fluppy on her well deserved successfull completion of her Trek of Kokoda.Her merticulous preparation to overcome her disabilities is an example for all to read and absorb to assist with their own preparation.Gail, what a shame there is this rivalry from other Trekking companies. From what I have seen you have a…[Read more]

Pete,I concur totally with the points you make. I do not believe however, general discussions are either premature or inappropriate.The point made by Charlie Lynn of Adventure Kokoda in his media discussions surrounding the latest deaths, apart from Trekkers needing to take greater personal responsibility, is that the Authorities do not ever…[Read more]

Hi Barbara,Professor Norton's article raises many issues that should be read and understood by all intending Kokoda Trekkers. The calories expended comparison with Tour de France bike riders I found most interesting.Of course it is an over generalisation to catagorise even moderately obese trekkers as in danger of coming to grief on the Kokoda…[Read more]

Eve,I could not agree more with your thoughts expressed. "It certainly is not a soap box rant".It is sad to see the photos and then read about the difficulties experienced by individuals who are clearly under prepared to walk Kokoda. If anything good can come out of the four tragic deaths this year, one hopes the increased publicity may alert…[Read more]

Hi Marshall,I do not believe there is a "rule" as such against Asthmatics. You and your medical advisers are the proper arbitrators.The death yesterday of yet another Kokoda Trekker again highlights how absolutely critical it is for thorough preparation,something I have been stressing on this forum over the past few months. A full and frank…[Read more]

Do not even consider not taking a sleeping bag. In my view an absolute necessity even if not ultimely used which is very unlikely. No need to have the very best, a cheapie, 1-2 season rated from Annaconda will do. Sleeping mats are a completely separate issue and usually a matter of personal comfort choice. For me, a thermarest 3/4 length is my…[Read more]

With the connection to the Track through your Grandfather you have all the inspiration you need to "go for it".Having already identified the very important fitness issues you need to address, in my opinion you are already 50% towards your goal.As a son of a 39th Battalion Digger who served on the Track it was my ambition to retrace his wartime…[Read more]