Ulladulla High students recall their amazing Kokoda journey

For Annabelle Healey, Marli Roughley and Cameron Davies, walking the Kokoda Trail was not just a physical challenge - it was a powerful emotional, spiritual, and cultural journey.

Along the way, they formed deep connections, witnessed remarkable resilience, and gained a new appreciation for history, community, and perspective.

The trio said the experience changed the way they see the world and themselves.

This is what the students wrote about their amazing journey .....

"For me, walking the Kokoda Trail was more than just a physical challenge, it was an emotional, spiritual and cultural journey that has changed my view of the world and myself. Through mud, mountains and moments of exhaustion, I met the most selfless, resilient people I've ever known. Jacob and Warren, two of our porters, showed me the true meaning of strength, not through loud words or grand gestures but through a sort of quiet kindness, deep care and endless support. We honoured the legacy of soldiers who gave their lives, stood where they once stood, and remembered their sacrifices not to glorify war, but to understand freedom. Around fires and beneath the rain-soaked skies, we shared stories of love, loss and dreams, discovering that despite having so little, the people of Papua New Guinea live with a richness we often forget to seek: gratitude, community and pure joy. Kokoda forced me to confront who I am and who I want to become. It reminded me of what really matters: people, purpose, and perspective. This experience wasn't just something I did, it became a part of me. And though I walked away covered in mud, sick to the smell of myself and sore to the bone, I also walked away grounded, more grateful, and deeply changed. The words of a fellow trekker will keep me thinking for years to come, 'don't let Kokoda be a wasted experience. Everything you felt, everything you saw, it was a sign. Now you have to figure out what it meant, and how you'll carry it forward. Thank you to my sponsors and my family for giving me this opportunity."

"While many people mention that Kokoda is not solely about the physical challenge, it wasn't until I undertook the trek myself that I truly understood the profound emotional journey I had to endure. Every step I took was honouring the courageous soldiers who faced unimaginable hardships during WWII. We heard many inspiring stories along the way that will stay with me forever. During the trek, we looked forward to the little things- the dry boots at the end of the day, getting into camp early or having rice for lunch. There are countless things I could share about my incredible tre,k but a few that meant the most to me were the inspiring people I met, experiencing a new culture and seeing the beautiful scenery. As I climbed the difficult terrain, I found myself alone with my thoughts, I gained deeper self-awareness and important lessons that I can now share with my family, peers and community. We're truly fortunate to have access to a strong education system and readily available resources, even the small things we often overlook are privileges not everyone has. Upon completing the Kokoda Youth Leadership Program, I have extended knowledge of what the ANZACs faced for our country and have immense respect for their bravery. I value every experience and person from my trek and I will never forget a single moment or individual along the way."

"When I signed up for the Kokoda Trail, I expected a physical challenge - tough terrain, some blisters, maybe a few stunning views. I didn't expect it to reshape how I see the world. A near fall off a mountain reminded me this trek wasn't just about walking. It was about trust, awareness, and relying on the people around you, like Warren, one of our porters, who caught me without hesitation. He, Leonard, and Sam didn't just carry gear; they carried us through the hardest moments with strength and quiet support. Our leader, Peta, showed me what real leadership looks like: calm, kind, and unwavering. She held us together, lifted us when we struggled, and led with heart. Walking in the footsteps of fallen soldiers was humbling. We weren't there to glorify war, but to honour sacrifice. That perspective stays with you. The local communities, with so little but so much joy, made me reflect deeply. When someone asked, "What's your drive?" I didn't know, but the question stuck. And in the hardest climbs, I found my answer: you don't always start with purpose; sometimes, you find it when you keep going. Kokoda left me with bruises, sore feet, and a clearer sense of self. It wasn't just something I did, it changed me."

Annabelle, Marli and Cameron would like to thank the Milton Ulladulla Ex-Servos, the Milton Ulladulla RSL Sub Branch and Ulladulla High School for supporting them.