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Adam Bent

Adam brings extensive expedition and remote area guiding experience to his role as an Australian Trek Guide with Kokoda Spirit. His guiding career began in the Victorian Alpine region, where he led technical backcountry skiing expeditions through the Falls Creek wilderness — environments where sound judgement, terrain awareness, and safety management are critical.

Driven by a passion for connecting people with some of the world’s most iconic landscapes, Adam transitioned into multi-day trekking, guiding Tasmania’s renowned Overland Track. One of his defining achievements was successfully summiting Lobuche East (6,119m) in Nepal via the Everest Base Camp route — an experience that strengthened his commitment to high-altitude leadership and cultural immersion.

Adam is also a currently serving member of the Australian Defence Force. His service provides a unique perspective on the Kokoda Campaign, deepening his respect for the courage, sacrifice, and mateship displayed by those who fought along the Track. For Adam, walking Kokoda is more than a physical challenge — it is a powerful study in resilience and leadership.

Drawn to Kokoda Spirit by its reputation for professionalism and genuine care for both trekkers and local communities, Adam values the organisation’s commitment to authentic cultural connection. He considers it a privilege to guide others across ground that holds such profound historical significance while helping them discover their own strength and perspective.

Adam’s Guide Insights

Trekking & Guiding Background

Adam’s guiding foundation was built in remote alpine terrain, leading technical ski expeditions where safety and decision-making were paramount. He later guided multi-day treks on Tasmania’s Overland Track before expanding into international high-altitude environments, including a successful ascent of Lobuche East (6,119m) in Nepal.

Journey to Kokoda Spirit

Adam chose Kokoda Spirit because he was seeking more than just a trek — he wanted an authentic encounter with history and culture. After hearing consistent feedback about the organisation’s integrity and the respect shown toward PNG guides and porters, he knew it was the right team to join. 

Connection to Kokoda History

While Adam does not have a direct family connection to the campaign, his service in the Australian Defence Force shapes the way he understands Kokoda. Walking the Track provides a deeper appreciation for the strategic challenges, personal hardships, and extraordinary resilience of the soldiers who fought there. He sees guiding as an opportunity to help bridge the legacy of those soldiers with the values upheld by today’s ADF.

A Moment That Never Gets Old

Brigade Hill. Standing on that narrow ridge, Adam is always struck by the scale of courage displayed in such unforgiving terrain. He describes it as the ultimate classroom for understanding teamwork, courage, sacrifice, and above all, mateship. Each visit is a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom.

Which Direction Is “Easier”?

Neither. The Owen Stanley Range offers no shortcuts — only the path you commit to. Both directions demand equal respect, preparation, and grit.

The Most Meaningful Place on the Track

Brigade Hill remains the place that resonates most deeply with Adam. Despite being one of the campaign’s most ferocious battle sites, it is often overlooked in broader public awareness. He believes it is sacred ground and is committed to ensuring the stories of the soldiers who fought there are never forgotten.

Favourite Village

Hoi Village. Whether arriving early in the trek or stopping before the finish, Adam finds the cool flow of Faiwani Creek, and the presence of countless butterflies create a restorative and almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Best Meal on the Track

Porridge at sunrise — a simple comfort enjoyed as mist lifts from the valleys and the day’s climb awaits.

One Item He’d Never Trek Without

A fresh, dry pair of socks. On Kokoda, foot care is critical, and the psychological lift of dry socks after a long day can transform morale while helping prevent immersion injuries. 

What Makes a Great Kokoda Trekker

There is no single blueprint. A great trekker shows humility in accepting the challenge and the persistence to keep moving forward. Pace doesn’t matter — determination does. If you respect the history and commit to the journey, you already embody what it means to be a great trekker.

In Adam’s Words

Kokoda changes people because it places you in the footprints of giants. It is more than a trek — it is a visceral education in courage, sacrifice, and resilience that stays with you long after you leave the Track.