30km gold coast

30km gold coast KOKODA CHALLENGE

In 2023, we held our first ever 30km Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge! The winning team crossed the finish line in an impressive 4 hours and 23 minutes, the final team came through in 11 hours and 57 minutes, with the average finish time being 7 hours and 57 minutes. 

Teams can consist of 2, 3 or 4 people (or 5 if you’re a school team!) and will wind through the stunning Nerang State Forest. Part of this course will follow the same sections of the 48km and 96km maps, so you’re likely to see these other competitors along the way.

You’ll hike or trail run with your team through Nerang State Forest which is known for its substantial hills and vast scenery. Other Kokoda Challenge 30km courses in different event locations generally take around 8 hours to complete, seeing as you’ll be starting at 2:30pm, you’ll be walking through the cold night, which adds to the experience of walking in the footsteps of our Aussie Diggers.

That’s what this event is all about; reflecting on the sacrifices of our soldiers who fought to protect our country and the freedoms we are privileged to know today. You’ll also reflect on the four values of the Kokoda Spirit throughout your experience; courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice. These are the pillars that lead our defence forces to victory in 1942 and they are the same values that will get you and your team to the finish line.

Another rewarding part of this event is the opportunity to fundraise for the Kokoda Youth Foundation’s youth programs that transform the lives of local kids. This is a chance for you to make a serious impact on the lives of young people in your community, you’ll even see the kids who you fundraised for while you’re out on the track!

The Kokoda Challenge is an extremely rewarding experience that will bring you and your team closer together, you will learn about one of the most significant battles in Australia’s history, you’ll help us change lives and you might even change yours along the way, as this event can be extremely transformative in itself.

This course has replaced the Gold Coast 18km, so if you’re eager to take part in an 18km course then we encourage you to register for the 18km Brisbane Kokoda Challenge.

Want to find out more?

Please fill out the form to register your interest in this event. Someone will be in touch soon to answer any questions you may have.