Mountain Bike Adventures

Kokoda Spirit - Coast to Coast Testimonial

2nd December 2008

Hi Wayne

Having just completed the inaugural Coast to Coast challenge from Buna to Port Moresby I would like to thank you, Kevin and Blake, and all the Kokoda Spirit staff – both in Australia and in PNG for a fantastic, well organised and unforgettable experience.

As was commented on during the trek – there are not too many “firsts” left on this earth to do. To be involves in one of these “firsts” was an awesome experience.

Please pass on my kind regards and heartfelt thanks to all concerned in PNG. You certainly have some great staff over there. Joyce did an amazing job as the advanced party, organising the support truck, food, drinks etc. Helen and Charles were great support in Port Moresby. The truck driver Coleman, did a fantastic job in sometimes very difficult conditions. A very, very big thankyou must go to the local trek masters and porters. Their support, encouragement, friendship, humour and singing made all the difference to a very difficult physical and mental challenge. They were there with us from start to finish. Actually I think we finished with more people then when we started with but who was counting – that’s PNG.

There is so much more to PNG than simply walking the Kokoda Track. The northern region of Buna, Gona and Sanananda has so much war history that not too many people get to experience. Not to mention the traditional dancing and the friendliness of the local people. I am sure some of the locals were thinking “who are these crazy people riding their bikes in this heat”!!

Walking the Kokoda Track is a wonderful experience and a fantastic way to remember and pay respects to the diggers that gave so much for the way we live today. Exploring the Buna, Gona and Sanananda area only enhances to this experience.

I would certainly recommend to anyone to walk (actually it’s a climb up, stumble, fall, get up again, slip, and climb down, then start all over again) the Kokoda Track. For those that do take up the challenge of the track, you should seriously consider adding a visit to the northern region. You will not be disappointed.

For those not fortunate enough to contemplate the track – the northern region alone would provide a war history and PNG cultural experience, in relative comfort.

Thanks again for an unforgettable trip. What else have you got to offer – I’m ready for the next adventure.

Regards

Mick Turner