Lake Macquarie Kokoda Challenge

The Kokoda Challenge is coming to the Lake Macquarie for the very first time in 2023! Setting off in the hills of Cooranbong, teams can choose to traverse the 18, 30 or 48-kilometre course through the stunning Olney State Forest and Watagans National Park. The challenging course includes inclines, mud, and creeks, and pays tribute to the sacrifices of the Diggers who fought in the 1942 Kokoda Campaign. While most of the competitors choose to hike the courses, Kokoda Challenge events also attract a large number of trail runners. Given the steep elevation, most of these teams will hike the inclines and trail run down the mountains and flat sections of the tracks. Others will run the entire way and compete for the illustrious winners’ medals and school cups named after Kokoda Veterans. The funds raised support Kokoda Youth Foundation programs to help kids in the local community. The Kokoda Youth Programs provide disadvantaged and disengaged youth with the tools to realise their full potential by instilling the values of the Kokoda Spirit; Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice. Past competitors have called this event “physically and emotionally exhausting, but also the most incredible and inspiring thing we completed.” Every step is worth it as you prove to yourself what you are truly made of.