Kokoda 2026 – by Kasie Sheridan
We knew Kokoda would be tough, but nothing quite prepares you for what the track throws at you, or what it brings out in you.
From the moment we landed and made our way to the start of the trail, there was a quiet understanding across the group that we were in this together. The conditions hit us early with mud, heat and long days on our feet, but it didn’t take long for something stronger than the challenge itself to take shape.
Every step of the way, we leaned on each other. We were there for a shared cause and started to grow a special shared bond.
The climbs were relentless, the descents unforgiving, and the river crossings never-ending. There were moments when the track really tested people, but no one was ever left to face it alone. What started as a group of individuals quickly became a team in the truest sense of the word. Whether it was the offer of a walking pole after someone’s snapped, a few encouraging halftime words at just the right time, simply dropping your own pace to walk with someone who needed it, or simply sharing red frogs, deep heat and wet wipes around camp, it was just what we did for each other.
Some of the most powerful moments weren’t on the toughest climbs, but in the quieter times sitting together at camp, sharing stories, looking out for one another, and building bonds that will last well beyond the track.
Standing at places like Isurava and Brigade Hill brought a different kind of weight to the journey. Reflecting on the courage, sacrifice, mateship, and endurance of those who walked before us gave even greater meaning to what we were doing. It reminded us that Kokoda is more than just a physical and mental challenge, it’s a shared experience built on connection and respect.
By the final days, we were tired, sore, and well and truly pushed to our limits yet stronger together than when we started. Every step toward the finish felt like a collective effort, driven by the people beside us and the cause we were walking for.
Finishing the trek and then standing together at the ANZAC Day dawn service was something none of us will ever forget. It was emotional, humbling, and the perfect way to reflect on everything we had just been through.
Kokoda challenged us in every way but more than anything, it brought us together and we are proud to say that as well as the journey we travelled together, we also raised over $230,000 together, as a team, to support a team, that support those that need it most.
Thank you to Alan and his team at South Sea Horizons for their knowledge, support, songs and life saving porters.
Thank you to everyone who donated and supported the trekkers as well as our major sponsors, Robson Civil , Thiess and sponsors Principle Living & Bandu, we are so grateful for your support of this epic adventure!
None of the 37 trekkers will forget this experience.
