Hi all …I second Brian for the lycra skins…they do reduce chaffing of the thighs and other areas….and I agree with Anthea…when stopping for the day on the trail I washed my clothes whilst wearing them and sat on the edge of the creek resting my feet in the water….within a short time my clothes were relatively dry and ready for wear the…[Read more]

That may explain why the creek water was so cold…however always refreshing after a good walk

Lorna that is correct, however having spent weeks in the jungles of Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand and various other locations hot and cold….and seeing what the locals do…. hammocks are very popular and if two trees 10 -12 feet apart are the hardest criteria….well its not that hard…..easier than trying to find a nice level spot with hip…[Read more]

Just my thoughts on waterproof socks from my experience in the Army and other treks that i have done in different climates. Waterproof socks may be of benefit in cold wet climates to stop feet getting wet..and cold….however in a tropical climate where feet are prone to excessive sweating i would think that you will be trapping the moisture…[Read more]

It is worth considering for safetys sake that no one has complete right to book out campsites, a good example of this is the huts on the overland track in tasmania….even if the huts are full no one has the right to refuse entry to any persons for any reason. This is made very clear. maybe a good precedent for Kokoda. In response to Adventure…[Read more]

Doing the trek will certainly be a life changing experience for you (if you want it to be) going with a group you will not be alone and you will make good friends as the bond of doing the trek will be strong. You will be amazed how quickly as a group you develop and work together as a team…creek crossings, drying clothes, bathing and swimming…[Read more]

The Kokoda trek is certainly an experience that alot of people have not adequately prepared for. I have spoken to people prior to their treks and asked about their level of training. A lot of people assume that they have adequate fitness because of other sports played or trained. This may help but there is no better substitute for Kokoda than…[Read more]

it depends which way you walk…..if walking from kokoda to owers the last day involves many creek crossings (Va ule) with last crossing of Goldie river, most people would leave their boots on for this. If walking the other way keeping your boots dry is more critical as there is still along way to go.The use of crocs for these crossings and night…[Read more]

as an experienced trekker and ex army ive used all including hootchies, bivy bags and tents. However the best sleep which is relatively lightweight is a hammock with mozzie net and tarp. Ive used this extensively for the last three years in all climates and it takes less than 2 minutes to put up or take down. No more hard sleeps on the ground. I…[Read more]

Wilderness wash is highly recommended as its bio degradable and will not harm the water system. Tie a piece of hootchie cord around the neck of the bottle and the other end have a slip knot around your wrist. This allows you to wash yourself and clothes without the risk of the bottle washing away. The creeks are fast flowing and cold

Hi all the Blue Mountain walks are great preparation, the steeper the better and the rougher the better, A great preparation walk is also Staircase Spur to Mt Bogong (near Falls Creek / Mt Beauty) 1 hour out of Albury. This trek is suitable only for out of winter as snow can be accounted from 900m above sea level. The mountain creek carpark is the…[Read more]

Hi just adding my thoughts on packs. I have used alot of packs including Army Issue. Its important to find a pack that suits your frame. Aarn packs are good, robust and reasonably lightweight. Walking Kokoda weight is critical…the lighter the better…..Ive seen trekkers start off with heavy equipment and after a period of time…gear gets…[Read more]

Sleeping bags are varied but worth considering is a good quality lightweight bag that can be opened and used like a quilt. Western mountaineering make great bags you can buy these from Paddy Palin or direct from US. I own a Western Mountaineering ultralight and it weighs apprx 600 gms and is rated to -5. I have used it in PNG and Tassie walks in…[Read more]

Hi I have walked Kokoda and other treks, I have also been a member of the Australian Army so my adventures are many and varied, my advice from previous experience is to remain flexible as many factors can and will effect a supposed iteniery. My group was due to fly from PM to Poppendetta at 9.00 in the morning. Our flight left PM around 4 in the…[Read more]