BDC 2027 Kokoda Trek Papua New Guinea
By Tim Chapman
Get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
For the very first time in school history, Bishop Druitt College and Discover Kokoda Treks are taking on the real, iconic Kokoda Track (Papua New Guinea) in July 2027. Designed for our Year 10 students and a parent/carer (optional), this once-in-a-lifetime expedition offers a powerful shared experience grounded in courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice. To make this inaugural trek even more extraordinary, 2027 marks the historic 85th Anniversary of the Kokoda Campaign. Walking through the lush, rugged Papua New Guinea jungle alongside peers and/or family members, while honouring Australia’s heroic history and connection to PNG, makes this more than just a hike; it’s a transformative experience and a deeply moving immersion.
The 2027 Kokoda Trek enables participants to live the Round Square ideals of Adventure and Internationalism within an Australian context. The Kokoda Track is more than a 96km trek through the Owen Stanley Range; it is an immersive journey into the heart of Australian identity. For participants, the 2027 experience deeply embeds four main Bishop Druitt Values: Courage, Mutual Respect, Integrity, and Service.
Our 11-day experience begins 5th July at Brisbane Airport with a flight to Port Moresby. On Day 2, we fly to Kokoda, joining up with our local porters and guides, and start our 9-day trek before flying home 15th July. Trekking Papua New Guinea’s Kokoda Track requires high physical fitness and moderate trekking resilience. While prior trekking skills are not necessary, the track is widely considered one of the world’s most physically demanding endurance experiences.
Invitation to hear more:
Thursday 22nd October, 5:30pm in the Roger Oats Centre
Joined by Matt Bragg of Discover Kokoda Treks
Information session and dissemination of further information, costs, and timelines.
"The more I plan and work on this program, the more I’m excited about the opportunity to walk this historic track and be a part of the BDC Team."
"There is so much about the Kokoda Trek (PNG) that embodies our BDC culture and values. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey of discovery, relationships, and adventure." - Tim Chapman
As we all gather and stand upon Country, may we acknowledge and respect Gumbaynggirr Land and the thousands of years’ worth of both physical and spiritual connection to Country, culture and teachings embedded forever within these Lands.