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“The Kokoda campaign and the Kokoda Track form part of our national identity, a defining chapter in the story of those who risked and lost their lives in defence of Australia and in our shared history with Papua New Guinea,” Albanese said ahead of his trip.
Here’s what you need to know about the history of the Kokoda Track, and what it means to Australia and Papua New Guinea.
What was the Battle of Kokoda?
Much of the battle occurred on the Kokoda Track, covering rough, isolated terrain and extreme conditions through the Owen Stanley Range.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is in Kokoda this Anzac Day. Source: SBS News
Around 625 Australians were killed and over 1,600 were wounded along the track.
The battle is considered the first time Australia’s security was directly threatened and is one of the most well-known aspects of Australia’s participation in World War Two.
What is the Kokoda Track today?
The hike takes four to 12 days and several companies run guided treks.
What does the Kokoda Track mean to Australians?
He believes the experience is profound for every single participant.
Former NSW MP and Vietnam veteran Charlie Lynn is the director of Adventure Kokoda and has done the trek 101 times. Source: AAP / PR Image / Charlie Lynn
“When they get to the other end — particularly those who weren’t born here — they say, ‘Now I understand what it’s like to be Australian’, and they’re proud of it,” he said.
“It’s a shared experience we had with them and we have a shared responsibility for making sure that people never forget.”
