Dark Takes on The Kokoda Track

[Dark Horse]

It's taken three years since the first discussions were initiated about the trip between three comrades. An ultimatum. Yes, we are going to do this - a trip that will most probably never be attempted again, memories of which will, however, long remain.

Ninety six kilometres in a straight line. One of the major turning points in the Second World War. A place, in fact, a bastard of a place. A place of many victories and losses, that go beyond words to describe. A place that commands respect, and to all that fought in it. My hat goes off to all those who were involved in the Papua New Guinea campaign.



To the present day, in memory and a tribute to all those that served in war, myself and a group of fellow workmates will commence our trek on April 16th, concluding on April 24th. Following the Australian advance, the trek begins at Owen's Corner, concluding at the Kokoda airfield. Hopefully by the tenth day we will be at the Port Moresby cenotaph commemorating Anzac Day.

Prior training regimes included such walks as from Circular Quay to Manly and also The Six Foot Track in The Blue Mountains. However I don't think that matters much, labouring across the Owen Stanleys.

I fly out of Sydney tomorrow and should arrive at Port Moresby courtesy of the 'roo and Scare Niugini (Air Niugini).

Anyhow, along with some other items I will be carrying - and probably regret carrying (this I will NOT regret carrying - as it is a prize find) is the following:



Probably of more significant to those up on their war history but the bright green band around the slouch hat that I will be wearing is the pugaree that represents 1st Battalion - a military tradition that dates back to The Great War.

1st Battalion pugarees are not easy to find and they can only be hand made. It's definitely an honour to also wear this pugaree on the trek with the Anzac Day finish at Kokoda in remembrance of all who made sacrifices for what we have today.

I'm due back on the evening of April 27th if I make it back! I still can't believe I'm doing this.



At the going down of the sun
We will remember them

Lest We Forget