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Phil brings a unique combination of military experience, educational leadership, and outdoor expertise to his role as an Australian Trek Guide with Kokoda Spirit.
He served in the Australian Army from 1988 to 2001 in both full-time and part-time capacities, primarily as an Air Dispatcher. This foundation shaped his leadership style, resilience, and ability to operate effectively in demanding environments.
For more than 26 years, Phil has worked in education as a Physical Education teacher and currently serves as Dean of Students (Years 7–9) and Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator.
Throughout his teaching career, he has been deeply involved in outdoor education, leading hiking programs and developing young people through challenge-based experiences.
Phil first trekked Kokoda in 2013 while leading a group of students — an experience that sparked a lasting connection to the Track, its history, and the people of Papua New Guinea. He began guiding soon after and, until the COVID period, led a trek annually. In 2022, he partnered with Kokoda Spirit and later joined the team as an Australian Guide.
Phil remains passionate about taking people across the Track and ensuring the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.
Phil’s Guide Insights
Trekking & Guiding Background
Phil has been leading Duke of Edinburgh programs and hiking expeditions since 2000. He first trekked Kokoda in 2013 and began guiding in 2014. Each journey, he says, is different, but his greatest reward is watching trekkers grow in their understanding of the events of 1942 and the significance of the campaign.
Journey to Kokoda Spirit
Prior to COVID, Phil guided with another operator before the owner retired. With a group eager to trek again, he approached Kokoda Spirit and joined a locally led trip. Experiencing the professionalism of the operation, the quality of planning, and the strength of the PNG porter team reinforced his confidence in the organisation.
After returning with another group, Phil was invited to join the Kokoda Spirit guide team — an opportunity he accepted immediately.
Connection to Kokoda History
Phil’s military background first sparked his interest in the Kokoda Campaign. Once he walked the Track, he knew it would not be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Guiding became his way of helping ensure this important chapter of Australian history continues to be remembered and honoured.
A Moment That Never Gets Old
Arriving at the start of the trek and being welcomed by the PNG crew — seeing their smiles and knowing you are back among friends — is a moment that never loses its impact.
Which Direction Is “Easier”?
“There is no easy way.”
Phil believes both directions present their own challenges. Walking from Kokoda allows the story to unfold naturally, while finishing in Kokoda after climbing from Owers’ Corner can feel surreal. Ultimately, he is happy to walk whichever direction the journey requires.
The Most Meaningful Places on the Track
Isurava and Brigade Hill. For Phil, these battle sites embody courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice — sacred ground that leaves a deep impression every time he visits.
Favourite Village
Camp 1900. It may be cold, but there is something undeniably special about the place.
Best Meal on the Track
Two standouts: pizza day and donut day.
One Item He’d Never Trek Without
A thick mattress — providing welcome comfort after long days on the Track.
What Makes a Great Kokoda Trekker
Someone who is open-minded, resilient, adaptable, and willing to be part of the team — a sponge ready to absorb everything the experience offers.
In Phil’s Words
Kokoda changes people because it reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were built on the sacrifices of others — something we should never forget.