Charlie,Generally swimming is not necessary, the exception being if water levels in the Goldie & Brown Rivers are above normal. The Brown River crossing is by wading, usual water level is knee to thigh height. Our Goldie River crossing in early Sept last was by log. There was clear evidence that the water level one to two days earlier had been…[Read more]

Hi Brian,The issue you raise is one part of a far bigger problem along the track. Certainly little care is taken by most trekkers with soap extensively being used in creek washing etc. Of equal or greater concern is the innappropriate sighting of pit toilets close by creeks etc.These are all issues the Track authorities are accutely aware of…[Read more]

A good quality,brand new tent such as the one you are acquiring should not need additional waterproofing immediately.If you would like added assurance you can purchase a waterproofing solution from most camping outlets. Just follow the directions on the packaging.All the best for your trek.Cheers, Geoff Hardie

Hi 007,I am sure there must be a misunderstanding of what your tour company is saying.To be without a tent on the Track would be an act of sheer folly and against all basic fundmentals of hiking. As described by Nettie, you must not rely on guest houses along the Track being always available. I assume most Treking companies have good reliable…[Read more]

Hi Mick,I am not an expert however I believe dome tents, due to height, are less stable in windy conditions which is generally,from my experience in August last, not a problem on the Kokoda Track.Wedge style tents generally have a better and handy vestible which is usefull in wet weather when you are getting in and out of tent.If you are wishing…[Read more]

Hi Eve,I only have direct experience with good quality leather boots. People I have hiked with over the years wearing lesser quality leather boots frequently enquired why it was that my boots stayed dryer longer. You will find however, on the Kokoda Track, the possibilty of slipping on rocks and accidently immersing you whole boot in water is a…[Read more]

Hi again,I am familiar with Rossi Boots they will certainly get you through. If however you wish to do further serious hiking I would recommend you seek the advice of a reputable/knowledgable hiking boot salesperson at a place like Paddy Pallin. They will be able to advise you on the many variations in boots from the low price bracket to the high…[Read more]

Hi Mick,Boots, like clothing can be a matter of personal preference.I believe both leather or the breathable "Gortex" boots (ankle high strongly recommended) are OK. I walked the track in August last with the majority of time (over 9 days)in wet and muddy conditions. Even the best quality leather boots will become water logged after 2-3 days.…[Read more]

Hi David,Assuming you are travelling with a accredited tour company, your porters will provide you with all the boiling water you need. A fuel stove is not necessary.Again your porters will let you know where it is safe and best to collect water. It is always best to play safe and use purification tablets. We used Micropur Forte tablets by…[Read more]

Hi hetbruceMy late father was also a past Editor of "The Good Guts". With my two sons we were also part of the 2/14th & 39th ' s trip back to Isurava in August 2007 with Nettie . After our service at Isurava we continued on to complete the Track at Owers . This trip was a life's highlight for me, made very easy by the emotion involved and all…[Read more]

Hi Eve,I walked Kokoda in August last. Two walks east of Melbourne which we found do replicate some of the stepness of Kokoda are the "High Lead track" at Powelltown and the walk up Mt Victoria/Mt Donna Buang at Warburton. Both have extended climbs of 1 in 4. Beyond May, be prepared for very cold and wet weather on these training walks.Good luck…[Read more]

Hi Gail,I would support the comments of Nettie.The past two trips organised by the 39th & 2/14th Batallion Associations in 2004 and in August 2007, each comprised two groups,those walking the whole track and groups just walking to Isurava Monument and return to Kokoda. The shorter walk has always proved very popular as an alternative to walking…[Read more]

Hi Brian,Congratulations on you objective. I am one of the 60+ year olds who walked with Nettie from Kokoda in late August last. It was one of my life's most memorable highlights.I would recommend you follow Allan Bradley's excellent article posted on November 1st. Given the time available and the identification of issues you need to address I am…[Read more]

[topic="General Forums"]My Experience by Allan Bradley[/topic] Congratulations Allan on a most extensive and informative piece on your experience. Excellent overall advice.I am aged 61, a son of a 39th Batallion digger and recently walked the track with a group of 21,including my own two sons. Most of our group were direct decendants of 39th &…[Read more]