Since first going to Papua New Guinea in 2005, I have really fallen in love with the place.  It is a country that is still mostly unexplored and can be quite rugged and challenging in places.  I first read about the Kokoda Trail in 2004 when the company that I work for took on the contract for the national airline of Papua New Guinea, Air Niugini, and I've had a burning desire (or complete insanity moment) to do this ever since.

The trek itself is famous with our Australian cousins for being the bloody trail where the Japanese tried to invade Australia during the war in the Pacific.  It is 50kms as the crow flies, but 96kms to walk.  Only 1km is almost level, the rest is sharp inclines and declines, and will take 9 days to complete - trekking 7-8 hours a day.  En route the accommodation will be mostly camp sites with no facilities (like washing in rivers and crouching behind bushes hoping nothing bites my bum!).  It will be my biggest challenge yet! 

I've selected the Stroke Association as my charity because I myself have been affected by stroke.  At the age of 30 I suffered a stroke which left me paralysed on my left hand side.  Through help and support from the doctors and nurses during that time (and sheer bloody mindedness) I made a full recovery.  I want to put something back, and take on the challenge of a lifetime in a country that I love.  So please give generously if you can.  Thank you.

 

PS  This challenge is self funded.  All monies raised will go to the Charity and not towards making the trip possible.