With the Kokoda Leadership and Development Program nearing, young participants are stepping up their training to ensure they're fully prepared.
In early October, the group gathered for their second training camp, where they pushed themselves mentally and physically through obstacle courses and hikes including a tough 14km, five-hour trek along the Kitty Gorge Trail. Evenings were spent around the campfire, reflecting on experiences and connecting with one another.
These physical challenges are designed not only to prepare the group for the demanding conditions of the Kokoda Trek but also to strengthen their bonds as a team.
Nita Bin-Hitam, 17, from Newman, returns as a mentor this year. Reflecting on her own journey, she feels more confident and prepared to guide the new group.
“As a mentor, I’m learning from my past mistakes... I just try to make it easier for the other young people,” she said.
“Returning as a mentor I feel more responsible, and like I’ll be able to help the new group with their nerves and climbing the big hills. The breathing can be hard at times too, but I’ll remind them they are there to have a good time. Often you feel homesick, but you got this new family who has your back.”
The Y WA Kokoda Leadership and Development Program offers young people, particularly those who might not otherwise have the opportunity, the chance to take part in this life-changing experience.
First-time participant Tehneisha Yorkshire, 15, from Kalgoorlie, is one of 10 young people from the Goldfields region taking part in the trek. She shared her excitement about the program, "I just really wanted to do the Kokoda program because I’ve never done anything like it.”
Through the training, Taneisha has gained confidence, built new friendships and improved her fitness. “I didn’t know I could do that much walking and hiking,” she said.
As the departure date draws nearer, Tehniesha is fully committed to the training, with support from a local Kalgoorlie-Boulder mentor.
The Y WA Chief Executive Officer Tim McDonald will join the group on the trek later this month. Dr McDonald praised the young participants for their progress, noting, “these camps really give the young people an insight into how they will be pushed on the trail.”
“I was blown away by how far many of them have come, particularly on such a long hike.
“You need to be training a minimum of two times a week for the trail and I can see that most of them are putting in that effort. It will do them wonders when it is trekking time.”
Dr McDonald said the training camps were important for putting hikers’ fitness levels to the test.
“I would say camp two was a success, the young people are at a good fitness level, and we are all feeling great about the trek,” he said.
“This program is aimed at developing aspiring leaders for the future, promoting resilience, teamwork and a sense of community, and I can see all those qualities shining through already.”
This inspiring group of young people are not just preparing for a hike; they are embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Through shared experiences, they are learning that with support, determination, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones, they can overcome obstacles both on the trek and in life.
As they lace up their boots and look forward to the breathtaking landscapes of Papua New Guinea, they carry with them the spirit of Kokoda: resilience, community, and the belief that they can overcome challenges that lie ahead.