CONTENTS
SYDNEY 2026
ABOUT US
The Kokoda Youth Foundation is a registered charity and non-profit organisation that runs Australia’s toughest team endurance event ‘The Kokoda Challenge’. The Kokoda Challenge raises funds for Aussie kids who participate in our experiential programs that engage and inspire them to reach their full potential. Not only will this event change your life, it will also change the lives of Australian youth!
Learn more about how your participation changes lives by clicking HERE
KEEPING THE KOKODA SPIRIT ALIVE
We aim to spread awareness of the heroic defense of Australia against imminent invasion and the spirit of our young soldiers by instilling the Kokoda values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice into the community of today. These timeless Kokoda values still have a profound impact on individuals and are the basis of a healthy community.
EVENT OVERVIEW
DATE
19 - 20 September 2026
Each distance starts at different times departing from Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh. Please ensure you attend the correct starting time according to your distance.
96KM
7:30am from Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
START LINE: Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
FINISH LINE: Heathcote Oval, Heathcote, NSW
TIME LIMIT: 39 hours
MINIMUM AGE: Turning 15 the year of the event
TEAM SIZE: 4 - 5 people
96km teams must have a minimum of 3 members at the start and at all times during the event. If a team falls below this minimum or if you end up walking alone due to team member withdrawal(s), the remaining participant(s) will be held at the next checkpoint and joined with another team. Teams are not permitted to continue below the minimum number.
Fundraising is due prior to event registration commencing, you are able to pay the difference at registration if your team has not met the minimum fundraising requirement.
4 person: $1500 per team
School: $750 per team
48KM
7:30am from Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
START LINE: Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
FINISH LINE: Heathcote Oval, Heathcote, NSW
TIME LIMIT: 20 hours
MINIMUM AGE: Turning 13 the year of the event
TEAM SIZE: 3 - 5 people
48km teams must have a minimum of 3 members at the start and at all times during the event. If a team falls below this minimum or if you end up walking alone due to team member withdrawal(s), the remaining participant(s) will be held at the next checkpoint and joined with another team. Teams are not permitted to continue below the minimum number.
Fundraising is due prior to event registration commencing, you are able to pay the difference at registration if your team has not met the minimum fundraising requirement.
3 person: $600 per team
4 person: $850 per team
School: $450 per team
18KM
9:00am from Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
START LINE: Rex Jackson Oval, Helensburgh NSW
FINISH LINE: Heathcote Oval, Heathcote, NSW
TIME LIMIT: 12 hours
MINIMUM AGE: Turning 8 the year of the event
TEAM SIZE: 2 - 5 people
18km teams must have a minimum of 2 members at the start and at all times during the event. If a team falls below this minimum or if you end up walking alone due to team member withdrawal(s), the remaining participant(s) will be held at the next checkpoint and joined with another team. Teams are not permitted to continue below the minimum number.
Fundraising is due prior to event registration commencing, you are able to pay the difference at registration if your team has not met the minimum fundraising requirement.
2 person: $160 per team
3 person: $240 per team
4 person: $320 per team
School: $235 per team
START LINE
We recommend that you arrive at the start line a minimum of 30 minutes before your start time, or an hour if you haven't picked up your event pack from pre-registration. Allowing enough time to find a park, organise your gear and participate in the pre-race formalities.
FINISH LINE
You did it! As you cross the finish line, an announcer will call out your teams name and each team member will be presented with dog tags.
There is hot food and drinks available for purchase, so you will finally be able to kick back, relax and reflect on the journey that was the Kokoda Challenge.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
As this is Australia's toughest team endurance event, we do have to implement some rules and regulations to ensure everyone's safety and security. We also need to make sure our event can run smoothly, and this can only be achieved with your help! Please familiarise yourself with the following points:
DROP-OUTS
If a team member needs to drop out at any time, this must be done at a checkpoint (if safe to do so). If a member cannot make it to a checkpoint, call the emergency number on your race bib for a safe extraction from the track. All team members must wait for the removed member to be extracted safely before continuing the challenge. If the team no longer meets the minimum team number requirement, they must join another team or withdraw from the event.
WALKING AS A TEAM
You must walk as a team, you only walk as fast as your slowest team member. If at any point, your team is found to be walking separately or if you are found to have left a member behind at any point, your team will be instantly disqualified. We are a TEAM endurance event, our events are all about leaving no team member behind, racing ahead to achieve your own personal best does not align with the values of the Spirit of Kokoda.
ATTENDING EACH CHECKPOINT
You are tracked at every checkpoint to ensure you do not go missing or attempt to take any “shortcuts”. To successfully finish our event, you must go through every checkpoint with your team. You cannot leave the event and resume it at a later time. Any team found taking short cuts will be disqualified.
WAIVER FORMS AND PERSONAL DETAILS
Every team member must complete their online registration and waiver to be able to compete in The Kokoda Challenge.
PORTABLE SPEAKERS
We ask that teams please be mindful of others when walking with a portable speaker. While some people may enjoy listening to music, others may prefer taking in the sounds of nature during the trek.
COURSE MAP AND ELEVATION
CHECKPOINT INFORMATION
18KM
CHECKPOINT INFORMATION
CP1: Princes Highway Crossing
Wow! That was a bit of a hike! Take a second here to stretch out the legs and prepare for the next part of your journey. While we do have all possible facilities needed for you, we do suggest not stopping here unless you absolutely need to as this checkpoint gets a high amount of foot traffic. Onwards and upwards.
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
CP3: Sebastopol Trig Fire Trail
You're almost there! Give this last leg of your Kokoda journey all you've got, the finish line is calling...
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
48KM
CHECKPOINT INFORMATION
CP1: PRINCES HIGHWAY CROSSING - 6.2KM
Wow, that was a bit of a hike! Take a second here to stretch out the legs and prepare for the next part of your journey! While we do have all possible facilities needed for you, we do suggest not stopping here unless you absolutely need to as this checkpoint gets a high amount of foot traffic. Onwards and upwards!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
CP2: GOANNA TRACK - 14.5KM
When arriving at checkpoint 2, make sure to take a deep breath and grab some water before commencing the upcoming 4km loop. Once you complete this loop you will arrive back at the same checkpoint (now checkpoint 3) before continuing on your journey. You will see your support crew at the next checkpoint so keep pushing ahead!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
CP3: SEBASTOPOL TRIG FIRE TRAIL - 23.6KM
MAJOR CHECKPOINT
Checkpoint 3 already! You made it to your first support crew checkpoint! Make sure to soak it all up and fill up on motivation and support from your loved ones. They may even give you a quick massage before sending you on your way! Try not to spend too long at this one, you are still in the early parts of the journey so keep the good vibes rolling! Ensure your support crew come with extra water in case you need it!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support Crew
CP4: INFORMATION TO COME
Checkpoint 4 is currently under review. Check back soon for more information.
96KM
CHECKPOINT INFORMATION
CP1: PRINCES HIGHWAY CROSSING (6.2km)
That was a bit of a hike! Take a second here to stretch out the legs and prepare for the next part of your journey! While we do have all possible facilities needed for you, we do suggest not stopping here unless you absolutely need to as this checkpoint gets a high amount of foot traffic. Onwards and upwards!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
CP2 - GOANNA TRACK - 14.5KM
When arriving at checkpoint 2, make sure to take a deep breath and grab some water before commencing. You will see your support crew at the next checkpoint so keep pushing ahead!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
CP3: SEBASTOPOL TRIG FIRE TRAIL (23.6km) - MAJOR CHECKPOINT
Checkpoint 3 already! You made it to your first support crew checkpoint! Make sure to soak it all up and fill up on motivation and support from your loved ones. They may even give you a quick massage before sending you on your way! Try not to spend too long at this one, you are still in the early parts of the journey so keep the good vibes rolling.
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing Mat
Support Crew
CP4: INFORMATION COMING SOON
Checkpoint four is currently under review. Check back for an update.
CP5: ULOOLA FIRE TRAIL - MAJOR CHECKPOINT - 40.5KM
You are almost at the halfway mark! Enjoy the company of your support crew while refuelling and rehydrating! Ensure your support crew provide you with extra water and have your favourite meal ready to go...
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing Mat
Support Crew
CP6/8: SIR BERTRAM STEVENS DRIVE 49.5km/63km
This checkpoint is both checkpoint 6 and 8, as you will be going out and back along the same track to and from checkpoint 9. Get to know the volunteers at this checkpoint so when you return from checkpoint 9, you have a friendly face! They will help you forget about the aches and pains in your feet by filling your tummys with lollies and team with good vibes.
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
CP7: GARIE SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB - MAJOR CHECKPOINT - 56.2km
As you are sitting at this checkpoint feeling all of the Kokoda Challenge feels, try and take in all of the breathtaking scenery around you! There will be a beautiful beach and maybe even an incredible sunrise or sunset to enjoy looking at while getting a massage from your loved ones! Once you have taken it all in, continue on towards the finish line!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
$5 parking per support crew car applies at this checkpoint. Have your support crew bring along some cash as EFTPOS is not accepted, these funds will be donated to the community organisation running the support crew car park.
CP 9/10: ROYAL NATIONAL PARK ENVIRONMENT EDUCATION CENTRE - MAJOR CHECKPOINT - 77km/85.5km
This checkpoint is your last support crew checkpoint before the finish line! It's almost time to celebrate. By now you will be feeling exhausted, sore, and maybe even a little delusional. Quickly grab a refill of water and lollies before smashing out the home stretch of this huge challenge! If you are quiet enough, you may even be able to hear the party going on at the finish line as you approach!
Water refill station
Medical
Toilets
Timing mat
Support crew
$5 parking per support crew car applies at this checkpoint. Have your support crew bring along some cash as EFTPOS is not accepted, these funds will be donated to the community organisation running the support crew car park.
SUPPORT CREW
FOR 48KM & 96KM ONLY
WHAT IS A SUPPORT CREW?
Your support crew is your saving grace throughout the 48km challenge. They provide you with support at designated checkpoints along the track and are the key to finishing the challenge.
WHAT DO THEY DO
Everyone’s support crew is different, but most provide the following at major checkpoints: a hot meal, strapping and medical attention, refill water packs and re-pack backpack with essentials, provide a change in equipment (different clothes, walking aids etc) and most importantly they encourage you to keep going!
WHAT CHECKPOINTS DO WE ACCESS THEM?
Check out your support crew checkpoints with more information here.
DO I HAVE TO HAVE A SUPPORT CREW?
No- however it is highly recommended to do so.
HOW BIG OR SMALL CAN MY SUPPORT CREW BE?
Your support crew can be as big or small as you like! However please note that at each support crew checkpoint, only ONE car will be allowed into the designated support crew area. We suggest a support crew of 4 or 5!
WHEN IS THE SUPPORT CREW BRIEFING?
There is a compulsory Support Crew briefing at the start line on event day after all teams have started the event. Important and essential information will be provided. This is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- If you meet your support crew outside of the designated support crew checkpoints, your team will be disqualified unless permission is granted by event organisers.
- Support Crews are discouraged to arrive at checkpoints more than 2 hours before their team is due to arrive. Work out a plan with your team to communicate their ETA.
- Support Crews must bring their own toilet paper at checkpoints as none will be provided.
- The Kokoda Challenge is an environmentally friendly event. Support Crews MUST remove and dispose of all rubbish. There will be no rubbish bins provided.
- Strap your team’s feet and sensitive areas BEFORE blisters and chaffing occur.
- Only one Support Crew Vehicle of standard size is permitted per team (NO Trailers or campervans allowed). Vehicles are to park in the designated parking area. Please keep your driving speed down. A register will be taken on entry to checkpoints.
- A $5 cash donation will be required at all the support crew checkpoints. All donations are provided to the volunteering local organisation or community group, not the Kokoda Youth Foundation.
- Support Crews are encouraged to visit local visitor attractions
IS THERE MORE INFORMATION FOR OUR SUPPORT CREWS?
Absolutely! The being support crew is a big task and it should not be taken lightly. Please find all essential information for your support crew HERE
TEAM TRACKING LINK
On the day of the event, your support crew will be able to follow your team’s progress in real time using our live tracking link. This allows them to see when you have reached each checkpoint and stay updated on your journey throughout the challenge.
training plan suggestions:
Each team will have a different training structure based on the level of fitness you are currently at and distance you have registered for. We encourage all teams to complete at least half of their chosen distance in training and introduce hills early.
OUR ECO POLICY
LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS, TAKE ONLY PHOTOS
We are all so incredibly lucky to be living in such a naturally beautiful country; let's keep it beautiful! Much of the Kokoda Challenge course will wind through national parks or state forests where it's very important to respect the the flora and fauna by being considerate of the following:
LITTERING
Yep, even your banana peels and mandarin skins count as littering, don't be a tosser! These food scraps only decompose unless composted properly and can also negatively impact the native wildlife and plants, take ALL rubbish with you.
If you don't want to carry around rubbish with you then consider unwrapping your muesli or protein bars before you get to the event and store these instead in reusable containers.
CONTAINERS FOR CHANGE
You can help us reduce our carbon footprint by putting all 10 cent containers in the bins marked CONTAINER FOR CHANGE. Not only will this stop all your recyclables from going into landfill, but all the money from your bottles will be donated to the Kokoda Youth Foundation to help us help more young people.
FUNDRAISING
WHY DO WE FUNDRAISE?
Kokoda Challenge originated as a fundraising event for the Kokoda Youth Foundation and grew into Australia's toughest team endurance event. The event has evolved over time, but the heart of it remains the same. All profits made go toward providing free youth programs for Australian youth.
WHERE DO DONATIONS GO?
Every dollar raised goes towards our life-changing youth programs that mentor local kids in the community to reach their pull potential. You can learn more about out our youth programs here.
FUNDRAISING PRIZES
Log into your dashboard to view The Kokoda Challenge merchandise your team will receive when you reach certain fundraising milestones. The team who raises the highest amount across all Kokoda Challenge events (open and school teams) will also win an unforgettable trekking adventure, kindly donated by Kokoda Spirit.
RECOMMENDED GEAR
The course treks across many different types of landscapes. Considering Queenslands climate, the weather is unpredictable, so ensure you are prepared for all possible changes in weather or personal circumstance. The items on the compulsory list are to be always carried. Those on the recommended list are to be carried at your own choice.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
Compulsory gear list:
- Ability to carry at least 2 litres of water at all times via water bladder or bottles. Please arrive with full water containers!
- Mobile phone
- All competitors MUST download the Emergency Plus app
- Race bib
- Day backpack
- Hat and sunscreen
- Pealess whistle in case of emergencies
- Snacks
- Personal first aid kit. Everyone needs their own! Be sure this carries all essential needs in case you are to get separated from your team at any time)
- Reflective safety vest that MUST be worn at night and when crossing roads
- Head torch and spare batteries
The following items are not compulsory, but are HIGHLY recommended:
- Walking poles
- Roll of toilet paper and a shovel as you may find yourself stuck in between checkpoints! One per team is enough.
- Water shoes (or waterproof hiking boots) for safely crossing flowing creeks
- Gloves, beanie and thermals (it can drop as low as ZERO degrees on the track, plus wind chill!)
- Waterproof/windproof jacket
- Portable phone charger
- Back up head torch
- Spare pair of socks
- Small lightweight microfiber towel to dry your feet after creek crossings or before re-strapping
- Blister packs
- Instant heat pads
- Chapstick
- Sunglasses
We're proud to partner with Anaconda for all your challenge gear and essentials! Use code KOKODA26 online to recieve $20 off when you spend $100 or more. Need some more advice? We have Anaconda offering some great tips on your gear list for your Kokoda journey!
Thank you Anaconda, for supporting our events and helping us change lives through the Kokoda Youth Foundation!
EVENT PACK COLLECTION
Before you take on the Kokoda Challenge, you will need to collect your team's event pack. This pack contains your race bibs (you can't start without these) and your free participant shirt! You can collect your event pack the morning of the event.
KOKODA YOUTH PROGRAMS
Kokoda Challenge events exist not only to provide your team with a mental and physical challenge, but also to raise funds for our life-changing youth programs that mentor kids in our local community.
DIGITAL DETOX PROGRAM
Our Digital Detox camp is fully funded by the donations raised through The Kokoda Challenge events, meaning we can provide the experience to kids completely free of charge so any 12-14 year old can take part, no matter their background.
This is an opportunity for kids to disconnect from technology and become more conscious of their relationship with their devices. Run onsite at our outdoor education facility Kokoda Park, this 8-day camp includes a series of adventure-based activities such as the high ropes course, rock climbing wall and giant swing, combined with educational workshops that teach mindfulness, breathing, yoga, journalling and more.
Submit an application to join the program or learn more ↓
KOKODA CHALLENGE YOUTH PROGRAM
Also fully funded by the donations raised through The Kokoda Challenge, the KCYP is a 9-month journey that will see 15-17 year olds hike the 96km Kokoda Challenge, adventure to Papua New Guinea to trek the Kokoda Trail and give back to local organisations through community service.
This program delivers increased social connections, a deeper understanding of the 1942 Kokoda Campaign and Australia's involvement in WWII, fostering connections in the local community and the opportunity to learn resilience and realise their full potential.
This program delivers a range of benefits, including strengthened social connections, a deeper understanding of the 1942 Kokoda Campaign and Australia's involvement in WWII, fostering connections in the local community and the chance to develop resilience and reach their full potential.
Submit an application to join the program or learn more ↓
ON THE RIGHT TRACK
This six month, regional school-based program is for students in Grades 8 and 9 who are losing interest in their ongoing education and at risk of exiting the schooling system.
The program operates one day a week and combines three months of physical training for the 48km Kokoda Challenge, whilst challenging kids to break through their pre-set beliefs and personal limits.
This is followed by three months of community service providing students with the opportunity to make a difference in their local area through positive contributions and connections.
1942 KOKODA campaign HISTORY
The Kokoda Campaign was a significant military operation that took place during World War II in 1942, between the Japanese and Allied forces, mainly Australian and Papua New Guinean troops. The campaign aimed to secure the Kokoda Track, a vital route connecting the northern and southern coasts of Papua New Guinea, which the Japanese intended to use to invade Australia.
The campaign began in July 1942 when the Japanese landed at Buna, Gona, and Sanananda on the north coast of Papua. The Australian forces, who were vastly outnumbered, were pushed back along the Kokoda Track towards Port Moresby, suffering from disease, starvation, and exhaustion. However, they managed to hold off the Japanese advance, and after several months of intense fighting, they were able to push the Japanese back to the north coast.
The campaign was fought in some of the most challenging terrain in the world, with the troops facing dense jungle, steep mountains, and treacherous rivers. The Australian and Papua New Guinean troops showed remarkable resilience, bravery, and resourcefulness throughout the campaign, which was a turning point in the Pacific War.
The Kokoda Campaign was a significant victory for the Allied forces, as it prevented the Japanese from establishing a foothold in Papua New Guinea and ultimately thwarted their plans to invade Australia. It also highlighted the importance of the Australian and Papua New Guinean partnership and the critical role that indigenous troops played in the campaign.
Read more about Kokoda Veterans who our school cups are named after:
