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Peter first walked the Kokoda Track in 2010 and quickly developed a deep passion for this iconic Australian story. Since then, he has trekked Kokoda 15 times, including 14 treks as an Australian Guide with Kokoda Spirit. He has also led treks across the Sandakan Memorial Track in Borneo on eight occasions, seven of those as a guide, including treks with students from the Kokoda Youth Foundation.
Peter’s broader trekking experience is extensive and international. He has climbed Mount Kinabalu (4,100m) on three occasions, walked the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia twice (once as a guide), completed the Coast to Coast Walk across England (340km), climbed Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), trekked to Everest Base Camp (5,600m), and walked the Inca Trail in Peru. He has also visited significant historical sites including Hellfire Pass in Thailand and Anzac Cove at Gallipoli.
With more than 40 years of experience in education as a teacher, Deputy Principal, and Principal, Peter has spent a lifetime leading, mentoring, and educating others. This background naturally extends to Kokoda, where he brings a thoughtful, measured approach to guiding and a strong focus on helping trekkers understand the significance, sacrifice, and meaning of the journey they are undertaking.
Peter’s respect for military service is deeply personal. His father served in the Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin during World War II, his uncles served in Borneo and with the Royal Australian Navy, and his grandfather fought with the AIF in Northern France during World War I. This family history reinforces Peter’s lifelong commitment to remembering and honouring those who placed themselves in harm’s way for our way of life.
A strong advocate for health and wellbeing, Peter maintains an active lifestyle. He has completed 13 triathlons, competed at both state and national level in touch football, and holds current National First Aid and CPR accreditation, supporting his calm, capable presence on the Track.
Peter’s Guide Insights
Journey to Kokoda Spirit
After walking Kokoda for the first time in 2010, Peter was inspired by the story of the campaign and by Kokoda Spirit’s approach — particularly the respect shown to PNG guides and porters, descendants of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels. From that moment, he was determined to help share this story with others.
A Moment That Never Gets Old
Brigade Hill is both Peter’s favourite and most confronting place on the Track. Its raw geography and powerful stories of heroism and sacrifice never fail to move him, reinforcing his commitment to honour those who fought there and to live a life worthy of their efforts.
Which Direction Is “Easier”?
Peter believes both directions present their own challenges. South to north is more physically demanding, while north to south can be tougher on knees and ankles. While the story flows more easily from north to south, he prefers to walk into the jungle first and fly out after completing the trek.
Most Meaningful Places on the Track
Brigade Hill and Bomana War Cemetery, where so many Australian soldiers are laid to rest, hold the greatest meaning for Peter.
Favourite Village
Menari Village — a place of reflection and historical significance, where Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner delivered his famous “Ragged Band of Heroes” address to the 39th Battalion.
Best Meal on the Track
Pizza and donuts.
One Item He’d Never Trek Without
Salted peanuts and hydrolyte tablets.
What Makes a Great Kokoda Trekker
A genuine desire to learn the story and to experience, in some small way, what our diggers endured.