The Kokoda Track is a walking track that runs through the Owen Stanley

Range in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Starting from Owen’s Corner, about 50

kilometers east of the capital Port Moresby, it winds its way up and down for

96 kilometers north across rugged terrain to the village of Kokoda in Oro

Province. The Kokoda Track has become an icon in Australia’s military

history as it was the site of a major World War II battle which was pivotal in

repelling invading Japanese troops in 1942. The track also symbolizes the

links between Australia and PNG as villagers along the track provided vital

support for the Australian soldiers. Walking the Kokoda Track is for many

a testament to the bravery and character of the soldiers who fought along it in

extremely arduous conditions (see Fig. 7.1).