Fluppy,I have used for many years, a 3/4 length Thermarest ( the original manufacturer of this type of hiking accessory and often used as a generic term for this type of mattress)) self inflating mattress which I have always found excellent apart from the occasional puncture which did in fact occur during our Kokoda crossing in August 2007. Had to…[Read more]

Fluppy,I have used for many years, a 3/4 length Thermarest ( the original manufacturer of this type of hiking accessory and often used as a generic term for this type of mattress)) self inflating mattress which I have always found excellent apart from the occasional puncture which did in fact occur during our Kokoda crossing in August 2007. Had to…[Read more]

With respect, carrying a latrine shovel is basic hiking etiquette and an essential requirement. A suitable implement is essential to ensure adequate depth (20-30cm min.) is achieved thus ensuring animals do not disturb and uncover faeces. Using your Boots and sticks will not easily achieve the required depth quickly and easily.In my opinion it…[Read more]

Fluppy,Be aware leaches will attach to your body not only from ground level, but also from vegetation you may brush into along the track.Geoff Hardie

Fluppy,Given your comprehensive investigation and prepartion of all issues, and whilst I am not familiar with the pack you have selected, I am sure it will be OK.Your thirst for knowledge to assist with your planed crossing knows no bounds which is great. Be careful you do not go into "information overload" though.Best wishes with your continuing…[Read more]

Hi Tegs,You have ample time available between now and your departure to comprehensively prepare yourself. The better you prepare the experience will be all the more enjoyable. For comprehensive preparation advice you only have to read through the excellent numerous articles on this forum under General Discussions and Track Preparation.If you…[Read more]

Fluppy,I fully support comments by Nettie, particularly the last paragraph. Your preparation appears to have been merticulous and well structured so be confident that your planning will get you through.Only you and your medical advisers know your limiitations so it is important that these factors be carefully weighed up. I, together with my two…[Read more]

Congratulations Brian on a fantasic achievement. Your meticulous preparation has certainly contributed to your successfull crossing for which you should be very proud.Kind regards, Geoff Hardie

Hi Tegs,What is the optimum group size? Our group of 21 was about the maximum I would consider comfortable. I certainly would not like to be with a group of 50 plus which I know is common with some trekking companies. We passed one group in excess of 100 including support Porters etc. Groups of this size put far too much pressure on the…[Read more]

Sorry Fluppy, I should have added, do not consider any pack rated/described as a "travel pack". This type of pack is not appropriate for serious hiking, in particular, Kokoda. I would rather have a comfortable pack than one with a multitude of pockets.Cheers, Geoff Hardie

Hi Fluffy,The comments of both Phantom and Cdt Smith are sound although they may seem contradictory.The issue is more what I have commented on previuosly, i.e. What are your future hiking intentions?If Kokoda is to a "One of" and/or, you will only be doing limited hiking in the future, then the Black Wolf range of packs would be adequate. For…[Read more]

I understand there is to be a public opening of the Kokoda Memorial Wall at Cascade Gardens, Broadbeach this Friday which coincides with Kokoda Day, 8th August annuallly, and celebrates the retaking of Kokoda by the Aussie troops during WW2. The memorial wall is most impressive and all intending trekkers who are able to visit it will go away with…[Read more]

Hi Colin,Thank you for your interest in my reply.Happy to share any of my experiences with you. Weather in late August was quite wet although most rain was late afternoon and at night. A good tent is essential if you choose not to use Guest houses. Tents supplied by our travel company, NOT KTL I hasten to add , were very poor.It seems you will…[Read more]

Hi Brian,I have just returned home to Victoria from attending the official dedication, Friday last, of the Kokoda Memorial Wall at Cascade Gardens, Broadbeach. Due to the wet weather on the day prior, the ceremony was transferred to The Southport School Chapel.If you are not already aware of this Memorial I am sure you would gain added…[Read more]

HI Brian,No doubt this post will reach you upon your successful completion of your crossing. Well done and I trust the experience was as memorable as my crossing in August last. I am sure you found the track as tough as what investment markets are at present.I have just returned from Qld. were I attended the official dedication of the Kokoda…[Read more]

Hi.It sounds like you are headed in the right direction with your preparation .I walked the track in August last as a 61 one year old with 3 months of serious preparation on tracks in Victoria replicating the terrain you will experience on Kokoda. After the first training walk I was stiff and sore for 4 days. I found after the next training walk…[Read more]

Brian,Be prepared, the incidence of rain will likely be greater in September than June. This was our experience last year when friends crossed in early July with very little rain compared to our crossing in late August. As evidence of the wet weather we encounted,the Goldie River had been about 3 metres higher the day before we reached this point…[Read more]

Hi Andy,Your youth will be an advantage provided a moderate level of general fitness. Should you wish to test yourself, two tracks worthwhile considering are the High lead track at Powelltown and the walking track up Mt Donna Buang at Warburton. Both are a fair drive from your home however they do very much duplicate the terrain you will…[Read more]

In my view weather protection of packs overnight is important. If they cannot be fitted within your tent then a hootchie is a good idea. Packs with any food in them will always be a magnet for animals etc if left unattended.Geoff Hardie.

It was my experience that note exchange, (K10 notes to K5), was readily available at foreign exchange points at Port Moresby Airport. No cost was involved in August last however things do change. Geoff Hardie