LATEST NEWS: 27 May 2025

A team of five intrepid trekkers are getting ready to hike the arduous 96 km Kokoda Trail next month to raise funds for TROG Cancer Research, driven by the desire to honour Australia’s WWII soldiers while making a difference to the lives of those with cancer.

Trekkers David Goode, Jasmine Goode, Shane Blundell, Michael Nolan and Damien Alexander will undertake the trek with Australian Kokoda Tours. They are aiming to raise at least $5000 for TROG, and you can support their efforts by donating via their page on the new TROG GOFundraise platform.

The Kokoda Trail, renowned as the location of the World War II battle between Japanese and Australian forces in 1942, can only be traversed on foot, single-file. The team will trek 96 km through the Owen Stanley Ranges over eight days, crossing rugged and isolated terrain and reaching a height of 2190 metres.

Father and daughter duo – David, 53, a Process Improvement Engineer and Jasmine, 24, an Electrical Engineering Officer 5 serving in the RAAF – told TROG a little about why they are embarking on one of the world’s great adventure treks, and how they are preparing for the challenge (pictured above with TROG CE0 Susan Goode).

Why have you decided to hike the Kokoda Trek?

David: Trekking the Kokoda Trail has been on my bucket list since I was young. I’ve always been drawn to its historical significance and the incredible endurance, sacrifice, and courage shown by those who fought for Australia. As someone who served in the Australian Navy, and having visited various military cemeteries and sites in Papua New Guinea, I developed a deep respect for the sacrifices made in wartime and the mateship that supported the soldiers during the campaign. Walking this trail feels like a meaningful way to respect those who fought for Australians and honour that history.

Jasmine: Since learning about the significance of the trail in history at school, I have always seen the challenge of hiking the Kokoda Trail as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Why did you decide to support TROG Cancer Research through this challenge?

David: Cancer has impacted several close friends and family members, so supporting cancer research is something that means a lot to me personally. My wife, Susan Goode, is CEO of TROG Cancer Research, so I’ve also seen the dedication behind their work and the real difference it makes. Taking on the Kokoda Trek is a way I can contribute to that mission – raising funds to support research that helps improve outcomes for people facing cancer.

Jasmine: Cancer touches everyone’s life in one way or another.  I believe that any contribution that I can make to cancer research is worth it. 

Have you done anything like this before? How are you training for the trek?

David: I’ve taken part in a few endurance challenges over the years, including the 2023 Trek4TROG up Mt Kosciuszko and the 2024 Trek4TROG in the Blue Mountains. Both were incredible experiences and a great lead-in to Kokoda. I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors – whether it’s surfing, fishing, or walking the dog –  but I’ve recently stepped up my training by incorporating long hill walks with a weighted pack to prepare for the tough terrain ahead.

Jasmine: I have done some pack marching during my time in Defence, but nothing on this scale. I am training with a routine of two weight sessions a week, one cardio session a week and a hike carrying a pack once a fortnight in the lead up to the trek.

What do you think will be the biggest challenge in trekking the Kokoda Trail?

David: The terrain will be relentless – steep climbs, slippery descents, river crossings, and mud – all in a hot, wet and humid environment where the weather can change quickly. I think the unpredictability will be part of the challenge: staying focused, managing the physical strain, and keeping mentally strong each day, no matter what’s thrown at us.

Jasmine: I think the challenge for me will be mostly mental. It will be a lot of consecutive days trekking to push through. I think the understanding that I have it so much easier than  those that trekked the trail in World War II – thanks to my lightweight hiking gear and guides – will be an additional mental challenge to contend with.

You can support the team’s Kokoda Challenge for TROG here.