Melbourne Tackles the Kokoda Challenge

The Melbourne Kokoda Challenge, an annual event run by the Kokoda Youth Foundation, is on October 28th in the Dandenong Ranges, attracting over 700 people to hike 15km or 30kms for Melbourne youth.

Available to both open teams and school teams, the event is designed as an opportunity to bring together the community, change lives of local teens and realise potential, it’s not a race – it’s about crossing the finish line as a team.

In 2017 Saint Josephs’ Primary had eleven teams conquer the challenge, with one of their teams (pictured) winning the Alan ‘Kanga’ Moore School Cup, the first school team across the 30km finish line; and they’re returning in attempt to repeat history. 

"St. Joseph's Primary in Elsternwick is so excited to be taking part in the Kokoda Challenge for the second year running, with a total of 48 kids, 7 teachers and 5 parents signed up, many returning after a memorable 2017 event.”

“The sense of achievement and pride the students had from completing an event such as this is difficult to replicate in the classroom. Couldn't recommend it more highly,” says teacher Michael Barnhoorn.

Schools teams are encouraged to submit teams in the 15km Peter Holloway Cup or the 30km Alan 'Kanga' Moore Cup to take home the Perpetual Trophy for their school for one year, until they are called upon to defend their title!

Over 700 people will start at Ferntree Gully Picnic Grounds amidst the history and awe of the Kokoda Memorial, as competitors set off through challenging trails and beautiful scenery in teams of 2, 3 or 4. 

“This challenge helps our children work together and strive to be their very best pushing through difficulties as a team, it helps them learn about Australian history, raise money for a worthy cause and realise that if they work hard enough, anything is possible,” says Christabel Martin from St. Macartan's Parish Primary School.

Reminiscent of the battle Australian soldiers fought in Papua New Guinea, it’s all about keeping the Kokoda Spirit of Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice alive within society, finishing as a team and changing lives of Aussie youth.

Event proceeds fund the Kokoda Youth Foundation’s programs that take Australian youth through a life changing journey of adventure-based learning, community service, team building and to Papua New Guinea to hike the real Kokoda Track and volunteer in local villages. 

The Kokoda Youth Foundation are encouraging people to rally their troops, fundraise for local youth and tick a big-ticket item off your bucket list; The Melbourne Kokoda Challenge!

Register to participate or volunteer at kokodachallengeevents.com/kokoda-challenge-melbourne - registrations close October 14th, 2018.