From March 26 to April 4, 19 young people from the Pilbara, Goldfields, and Perth metro regions undertook the challenging Kokoda Trek as part of the Y WA’s Kokoda Leadership and Development Program.
What began as a physical and mental challenge soon evolved into a transformative experience, as participants immersed themselves in the spirit of the ANZACs through resilience, mateship, and shared determination.
Over nine days, the group trekked 96km through dense jungles, steep terrain and relentless rain, retracing the footsteps of WWII soldiers who endured unimaginable hardships on the very same track. With every step, they not only honoured the past but also forged their own connection to the courage and sacrifice that define the ANZAC spirit.
Eliot, a participant from Perth who regularly attends the Y WA’s Base@Belmont, reflected on their newfound appreciation for this history.
He said, “I didn't know a lot about the war history before going on the trip. But a lot of what [the historian] told us and being able to be in the place and hear the stories has given me a lot more appreciation...”
“It makes it feel a lot more real because I can almost like picture it in my head, like these were real people. They're not just from the history books...”
The group spent around eight months preparing for the trek with support of Kokoda Courage and the Y WA. On the trek they were guided by local Papua New Guineans, descendants of the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ who assisted Australian soldiers during WWII. These guides offered expert navigation and deep cultural insights, further enriching the group’s understanding of the shared history between our nations.
Each day tested the group’s physical and emotional limits-slippery paths, exhaustion, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, it was mateship that kept them going, just as it did for the ANZACs.
One participant, Stanis from Kalgoorlie who regularly attends the Y Goldfields Recreation Centre, reflected on the physical and mental challenges of the trek. He said, “the first day was definitely the hardest...the mountain we had to climb was the biggest one and it was the first day too, so we were struggling...”
Despite the difficulty, Stanis rose to the occasion by offering constant support and encouragement to his fellow trekkers. Instead of sitting down after finishing each leg of the trek, he would stay on his feet to cheer on his fellow participants.
In recognition of his selfless attitude and leadership, Stanis was awarded the Kingsbury Award - named in honour of Bruce Kingsbury, an Australian WWII soldier who demonstrated extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.
“Kingsbury led his men to war and died for them...He was on the front-line and... encouraged his fellow soldiers... I think that’s what [the Kokoda Courage historian] noticed [about me too]. because after I would finish, I wouldn’t sit down and take a break. I’d always clap and cheer on the other trekkers walking down, and I would always cheer them on and congratulate them.”
This ANZAC Day, we honour the courage and spirit of those who fought on the Kokoda Track and celebrate the next generation of leaders carrying the torch forward. Through the Kokoda Trek, these young people have embodied the enduring ANZAC values of resilience, unity, and the power of mateship.
The Y WA would like to acknowledge and thank all current sponsors assisting participants including Murdock Recruitment, Solutions IT, Maali Mechanical Services Pty Ltd, Rotary Club of Boulder, BB Recruitment & Consulting Services, East Pilbara Race Club, Kevin Michel MLA – Newman, Shire of East Pilbara, Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Services, Pilbara Regiment, Cassie Rowe MLA – Belmont and Westpac.
To view the unbelievable journey of 14 young Western Australian’s who took part in the 2023 program see video here: Kokoda A Journey of Self Discover 2024.