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Just going to add some general tips about cameras in less-than-ideal-conditions since I've seen people asking in other threads:
Digital Compact Cameras
These are probably my recommended choice for taking photos on trek. Most reasonably priced compacts are rather cheap nowadays ($200-400 AUD) for something decent. A 1GB card is plenty for the casual photographer, though if you plan to take a lot each day then I'd recommend 2-4GB. Check memory card comparison sites for your specific camera resolution though.
As for protection, definitely bring a plastic bag (or several). Air tight would be best — in case it gets really wet on trek — there's nothing worse than getting to the end of the trek and losing all the photos you've taken.
That's all there really is. Keep your camera dry, and preferably padded with a bit of your other gear rather than on the edge of your bag to protect it against any shocks along the way.
Digital SLR Cameras
Personally I wouldn't risk the gear, but for those who want much better photos considering the conditions then SLRs/DSLRs are the way to go.
In relation to protection, all the suggestions that I've made for the compact cameras can also be applied to DSLRs. On top of that though, I'd highly recommend choosing ONE lens and keeping it on your camera the entire time.
Why? I'm sure at this point you'd be familiar to the hazards of changing lenses (how it opens up the sensor to dust) in normal conditions. In less than ideal conditions, it's even more important to minimise the lens changes if possible.
The usual protective gear for SLRs would be particularly useful here as well, such as lens hoods and protective filters to keep your lens free of dust, scratches and other hazards.
As you can see, bringing along a DSLR's requires a bit more care than a compact digital camera. Either way though, with a little prep you should be able to safely bring home photos with you after your trek of Kokoda. =)
Please let me know if there's any areas I may have missed.
You definitely sound a lot fitter than your hubby! Hopefully he'll see reason before going. Are you also hiring a porter/going to share the porter? Or going to carry your own pack? Maybe he doesn't want to be the only one with a porter if you're going to carry yours yourself.
Also, I can definitely imagine you carrying something that you could fit inside.
Although I'm surprised to say that I'm taller than someone for a change (153cm/5 foot exactly), I got teased a lot for my height. The occasional flabberghasted stare I'd get from carrying something larger than me is almost worth it though. 
QUOTE(39thdecendant @ 23 Oct 2007, 11:10 AM) [snapback]5883[/snapback]Just something you may be interested in Kokoda Day is held on the 8th of August each year, ANZAC Day is special, but Kokoda Day is thier day.
NettieI haven't heard of Kokoda Day until now. What do they do in PNG to celebrate it?
QUOTE(12_bolts @ 5 Nov 2007, 10:45 AM) [snapback]5920[/snapback]I will be using a digital SLR and taking max size jpegs. Any suggestions on lens choice and amount of storage I may need.
Thanks, PhilDue to the nature of the trail (random lighting due to shade, foliage and other things) I'd recommend a fast lens so you have better flexibility when the lighting conditions change. What DSLR and lenses do you have in your arsenal?
Optimally, if you have a Canon and L-series lenses they're by far some of the most weatherproof lenses. Of course, that's if you want to risk taking along a lens of that value. If you list the equipment you have, it'd probably be a better way to suggest lenses unless you were planning to buy a brand new one for the trip.
Also, be very aware of humidity and what the moisture will do to your camera.
As for storage… How many MP is the camera? Since you'll be taking JPEGs, in general I would think that 2-4GB would be enough, though it really depends on how many photos you plan on taking. If you have 10MP camera and don't plan to take more than about 350 pictures, then a 2GB should be enough.
QUOTE(39thdecendant @ 9 Oct 2007, 06:35 AM) [snapback]5759[/snapback]the self inflating which I found extreamly uncomfortable, but then maybe I just camped on every rock there was!And here I was under the impression that inflatables cushioned against rocky surfaces more than other materials!
Were the anti-malaria tablets recommended by your doctor? I always feel that it's wisest to consult your doctor around 6 weeks before travelling as they generally have a good idea of what vaccinations you need for each location.
Being a photography enthusiast, I'd be very hesitant in taking a nice camera along. Although SLRs (digital or not) would get the best pictures from your trip, you'd have to weigh the cost of any damages since it'd probably be in the thousands unless you spend some hundreds on protection.
I'd recommend a mid-range consumer compact camera, or even some of the prosumer compact cameras as they're going down in price a fair bit nowadays. Then, get a cheap case — hard or soft, as long as it keeps your camera at a reasonable temperature (blocking out extreme heat and cold). For extra measure, I'd stick that inside a zip-lock bag or something similar to prevent moisture and water from getting in.
That's probably one of the best compromises between decent photos and cost for trekking conditions. =)
QUOTE(tbrennen @ 30 Sep 2007, 01:55 AM) [snapback]5665[/snapback]Thanks for the input. So do I go long sleeve shirts or short sleeve? Shorts or pants? Or combinations?Beside the weather, do insects like you?
If they do, it's something else in favour of long sleeves even if they're light ones. The same deal applies for long pants over shorts.Out of curiosity, how many porters usually accompany a trekking group? One for each trekker and one group porter?
QUOTE(Boss Meri @ 17 Aug 2007, 05:01 PM) [snapback]5188[/snapback]Re chocolates/sweets: if you trek with us you get a chocolate bar and sweets every day as part of our ration packs: http://www.trekon.com.auHaha, chocolates and sweets are a surefire way to get some people on.
I'm a bit concerned about what you mentioned earlier in your post about trekkers suffering from dehydration and vomiting. I can understand dehydration from not being prepared when it comes to fluids, but what is it that causes the vomiting? Is it mainly the stress from being unused to a heavy load?
The Kokoda Track Guide DVD has some maps included (both general and terrain levels).
I'd recommend a video walking guide of the Kokoda track over a book since you get a more vivid representation of the terrain. Mainly since books tend to be limited in motion — you can really see things in action, and sometimes that makes all the difference.
Enjoy your trek and be sure to tell us how it went when you get back. =)
QUOTE(Boss Meri @ 31 May 2007, 04:31 PM) [snapback]4299[/snapback]Please come and walk KOKODA, it will be the best thing you have ever done! If you think the movie is moving, wait until you have walked in our diggers footsteps. . .I'd have to second that. Seeing is completely different from actually being there. Although, like someone said before, seeing the track before walking it's a good idea and preparation's definitely needed.
