Peter Gamgee  – Kokoda Track

In April 2006 I experienced the Kokoda Track with a small group under the care of Getaway Trekking.  This had been something I had wanted to do for some time and was fortunate enough to be introduced to Getaway and Kevin through Wayne.

The trek more than met my expectations and was far better than any other trekking group experiences we observed along the way.

First we trained together – organized by Kevin – before we went – and were prepared individually and also as a team.  Most of us also read, or heard from others about the Kokoda campaign of 1942 and were able to relate the stories to the places we visited along the track. I have since re-read some of those books now that I can relate even more to what it must have been like for our soldiers.

We walked at a comfortable pace – taking the time to visit the sites, and interact with the nationals in the villages. We also visited Myola – not on the usual trekking route, and yet a significant site used for resupply during the war – then being the only flattish and clear area along the track.

It was clear that other co-track trekkers were envious of our group and the friendly and often jovial way we interacted along the track.

We also did a little more than just Kokoda – to top off the experience we spent a day at Buna on the coast.  Buna is a picturesque village situated on the site of a major battle.

There is no doubt to me that our group experience was made exceptional due to the Getaway approach and personal involvement which provides a much more rounded and safe experience than I have observed from other trekking groups.   The totally friendly, realistic, caring approach to trekkers and nationals was fantastic.

I plan to trek with Kevin & Wayne again and would recommend Getaway without hesitation to anyone planning to experience trekking in the out-of-the way places.

Peter Gamgee AM BE
Principal Consultant
SMS Management & Technology