This Saturday at 7am, a determined group of 3,300 Gold Coast locals will embark on an epic adventure, taking on The Kokoda Challenge, also known as Australia's toughest team endurance event. Participants will push their limits through the grueling 30km, 48km, or 96km course, aiming to complete it within an impressive 39-hour timeframe. The 19th annual Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge invites hikers to walk in the heroic footsteps of Australian Diggers from World War II.
Against the breathtaking backdrop of the mountainous Gold Coast Hinterland, the challenging course with over 4,000 metres of elevation is not just a test of endurance but a powerful platform for teams to raise vital funds for Australian youth programs organised by the Kokoda Youth Foundation.
Johllene Cooper, CEO, expresses her delight at witnessing the unwavering support from the community for yet another sell-out event. Since its inception in 2005, this event has transformed the lives of hundreds of youths across Australia, fostering self-discovery, a sense of belonging, and encouraging disengaged youth to stay in the education system.
"The Kokoda Challenge unites the community in the Spirit of Kokoda, and we are thrilled to return to the Gold Coast for our 19th year," said Johllene. "Participants in The Kokoda Challenge sign up for more than just a physical and mental test, they are champions for local kids, transforming lives through their incredible fundraising efforts."
"Our diverse range of youth programs, provided at no cost to young people in the community, aims to mentor and empower them through experiential learning, enabling them to reach their full potential. Every Kokoda Challenge participant becomes a catalyst for changing the life of a young person through this remarkable event."
The Kokoda Challenge holds a special place within the Gold Coast community, serving as a living memorial that honours the Australian Veterans who valiantly served along the Kokoda Track in 1942. It embodies the values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice that enabled our Diggers to triumph over a formidable enemy.
Kokoda Youth Foundation Founder and Vietnam Veteran, Doug Henderson said the Kokoda Youth Programs are about providing disadvantaged and disengaged youth with the appropriate tools to realise their full potential by instilling the values of the Kokoda Spirit; Courage, Endurance, Mateship, Sacrifice.
“With one in ten Australian youth at risk of disengagement from education and employment, programs like this are vital in continuing to safeguard the future of Australian children,” said Doug.
“Being involved in something like The Kokoda Challenge gives ordinary Australians the chance to make a life-changing difference in a young person's life.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re an avid hiker, new in your fitness journey, or someone who just enjoys the occasional walk—the event is open to all levels of experience and we encourage you to register, donate and join us for an unforgettable 39-hours.”
The challenging 96km trail, starting in Mudgeeraba and ending in Nerang via Hinze Dam, will see participants pushing forward from 7am Saturday to late Sunday evening until the final team crosses the finish line. Teams have 39 hours to conquer the relentless hills and navigate through the pitch-black night, all in support of the Kokoda Youth Foundation's mission to change the lives of Aussie kids within our community.
Kokoda Challenge Gold Coast
Event date: 13th - 14th July, 2024
Distances: 30km, 48km and 96km
Registration costs: team registrations fees start from $250
Start and location:
96km starting from 7:00 am at Mudgeeraba Bowls Club
48km starting from 10:00am at Raw Challenge Numinbah
30km starting from 2:00pm at Little Clagiraba Reserve
Website: kokodachallenge.com
Contact details:
Media are encourage to join us at our 96km and 48km start line.
For more media information contact:
Amy Puckeridge
Event Marketing Officer
(07)5539 4141