The Kokoda Youth Leadership Clubs Challenge is an annual program administered by ClubsNSW, which offers young people between the age of 16 and 22 the opportunity to walk the Kokoda Track.

All expenses are covered by ClubsNSW including camping equipment, boots, airfare, accommodation, food and required permits. The program is an extension of an existing program developed by the RSL & Services Clubs Association, which involves NSW RSL clubs.

The intention of the Kokoda Youth Leadership Clubs Challenge is to identify young people within the community who are potential leaders, and who have an ability to both inspire and educate other young people within their local communities. The program has now been adopted nationally, with state club associations in Victoria, Queensland, the Northern territory, Western Australia and South Australia all funding the cost of at least one young person to walk the Kokoda Track.



Walking the 96km track is also an opportunity for young people to gain a greater understanding about a campaign that is rarely discussed in the classroom. More than 2,000 Australian soldiers are buried at the Bomana War Cemetery near Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. Each group will visit the cemetery at the conclusion of their ten day trip, an experience that is as emotionally draining as the walk is physically.

Applications will be sought for the 2009 program in May next year. Should you be interested in applying at that time, you are encouraged to email kokoda@clubsaustralia.com.au and you will be notified when applications open. Media interested in speaking with current and former participants of The Kokoda Youth Leadership Clubs Challenge should contact ClubsNSW Media Relations Manager Jeremy Bath on (02) 9268 3032.

For further information about Adventure Kokoda, which was established by Major Charlie Lynn in 1991, please click here. Adventure Kokoda is acknowledged as the most professional operator on the Kokoda Trail.  

Downloads (click on each heading below to download)

Kokoda Promotional Flyer

Kokoda Media Release

Kokoda Radio Interview 1 (courtesy 2UE)

Kokoda Radio Interview 2 (courtesy NOVA)