After an overwhelming response and unrelenting requests from passionate participants, the renowned Kokoda Legacy event makes a triumphant return to Canungra's Kokoda Barracks this Remembrance Day. This extraordinary event, orchestrated by the Kokoda Youth Foundation, first emerged in 2022 as a heartfelt tribute to the 80th anniversary of the 1942 Kokoda Campaign, returning this year in celebration of the centenary of Legacy Australia.
In 2022, the Kokoda Legacy event proved to be a remarkable success, raising a substantial $47,820.97 for each of its beneficiary organisations, the Kokoda Youth Foundation and Gold Coast Legacy. Both these local charities are steadfastly committed to transforming the lives of individuals within the Gold Coast community.
Originally conceived as a one-time affair, the event's resounding success and the impassioned pleas of its dedicated participants have compelled its return.
Set to take place on the hallowed grounds of Kokoda Barracks on Saturday, November 11, 2023, Remembrance Day, the event will commence from the Canungra Area Golf Club. Anticipating the participation of approximately 1,500 individuals, this unique experience grants exclusive access to Kokoda Barracks—a privilege not granted to the general public at any other time.
Doug Henderson, the Founder of the Kokoda Youth Foundation and a Vietnam Veteran, spoke of the decision to resurrect Kokoda Legacy for one final year. "We are honoured to commemorate Legacy Australia's centenary with the return of the Kokoda Legacy event," he declared. "The Kokoda Legacy event not only provided invaluable support to our local youth programs but also contributed significantly to the outstanding efforts of Legacy Gold Coast within our community."
Craig Kingston, President of the Gold Coast Legacy club, expressed his delight at the event's revival. "Last year, the money raised enabled us to provide vital assistance to over 1,100 Gold Coast families of veterans of the Australian Defence Force who have given their lives or health for their country," he said. "We were able to provide services like home visits, bus trips, advocating for entitlements, educational/social/financial support and holiday camps for our Legacy children following the support of the community through the Kokoda Legacy event."
This year's Kokoda Legacy promises to be an unforgettable tribute, combining physical challenges with heartfelt remembrance—a fitting way to honour the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of their country. Featuring course options of 5km, 10km, 20km, or 30km, there's a distance suitable for every fitness level. Plus, children under the age of 8 can join for free, while registration fees begin at just $20.
Don't miss your chance to be part of history and contribute to these noble causes as we come together to commemorate our heroes.
Kokoda Legacy
Event date: Saturday 11th of November, Remembrance Day 2023
Distances: 5km Remembrance Walk or 10km, 20km or 30km hike/trail run
Registration costs: kids under 8 can participate in the 5km Remembrance Walk free, entry fees start from $20
Start and location:
All distances will start at Canungra Area Golf Club
5km Remembrance Walk will start at 11:00am
10km, 20km and 30km will start at 7:00am
Website: kokodachallenge.com/legacy
ENDS
For more information, please contact:
Jessica Wilson
Marketing Manager
0433 707 846