Regards Merv,

Just a short note of thanks for the experiences I have gathered over the last few days. As Deb and I have traveled and trekked through many continents and countries I think I can speak about our Kokoda Track trek, with some authority.

We were very fortunate to be able to do such a trip considering what our ancestors did to ensure that we could. A special place, but made even better with the selection of guides and porters. Although I only spent a small amount of time with you, seeing what you did for Tom and what you have done for the villages in terms of water movement was and is substantial. And as for Dave, you would struggle to find a better character to guide you on such a trip. His compassion and patience was extraordinary, and his knowledge of the goings on and atrocities of Kokoda was so informative, he often had us in the palm of his hand.

We were also blessed with the quality of your porters and native guides. The choice of Peter and Arnold as leaders is very wise decisions. But across the board I managed to interact comprehensively with all the local men, trying to explore their backgrounds, and am a better person for my meeting with them. Andrew spent much time teaching us some local music, Bishi for a first timer was awesome, Kenny, Chilean the character, Simon, Jake, Nelson, and all the other boys (very humble and loyal to the trip) were just great to be with. I have many photos, some sad, many happy of the boys and when published would love them to be sent to them.

If there is any way in which I can help from Brisbane, I would love to, be it an informal informative session with potential trekkers, or anything, please do not hesitate to ask. Just today I bought 2 more books on Kokoda, “Retreat from Kokoda” and “The Spirit of Kokoda”. I certainly have the Kokoda bug!

I will ensure that anyone I know utilizes your company, and will pass on your details to interested parties.

Thanks again Merv for the wonderful experiences

Phil Jackes

Hey Merv,

Just wanted to say how grateful I was to be part of such a wonderful experience. After the shock of the first day I can truly say I enjoyed every day of the trip - even the mud. I know it was only a very small glimpse of the conditions that the diggers had to endure but it gave me a much better appreciation of the formidable task they had in front of them. I was really touched by how giving the porters and locals were - especially for people that have so little. I was well taken care of by my porter Vagi (vargee - I believe) & felt he took great pride in doing so.

I really miss the stunning views of the untouched mountains of PNG but especially the simplicity of our days and nights. I'm looking forward to an escape to the wilderness again closer to home (soon as I buy some new boots and my knees recover !) to recapture some of that peace.

Thank you for sharing some of your personal war time experiences with us.......they were genuinely very interesting and particularly helpful in trying to understand the veterans that we assist.

So thanks again - and to Rhonda for all her hard work behind the scenes.
If Rhonda e-mails me the contact details of the lady with the baskets I'll pass it on to my girlfriend in cairns who is happy to purchase me one.

It was a pleasure to meet you & walk with you. It was an experience that will always be with me. Fondest regards & take care - the people of PNG are fortunate to have your help.

If you’re reasonably fit or can get fit,
If you’d like some adventure and a challenge,
If you have some mental toughness,
Do yourself a favour,
Walk the Kokoda