Kokoda Trek Preparation

Knees

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:31:25 +0000

Hi there everyone *waves*

My hubby & I want to do Kokoda again in 5 or 6 years time. Problem is, he has gammy knees. No specific problems, just gammy knees in general.

He is 6ft 2", so when we did Kokoda last year in October, his knees gave him a fair bit of grief downhills. 1 packet of Panedeine, 1 packet of Voltaren tablets, an entire tube of Voltaren emugel, a soak in the ice cold creeks when we camped and 1 knee brace later, he made it.

What sort of exercises could he do to strengthen his knees/allow his knees to cope or hold up come our next trip? Plenty of time to prepare, so any suggestions would be good. Closer to the date he will be seeing a physiotherapist, but we're trying to do as much as we can on our own as finances are still recovering from last year's adventure...

So if you've had problems with your knees, share your experiences with us on what worked, what didn't and what helped get you through.

fluppy

Gateway Hotel

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 02:00:09 +0000

Was being revamped when we trekked in October last year. Wondering if any trekkers have seen the updated version of the Gateway Hotel - just curious that's all...

fluppy

Food

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 08:08:41 +0000

We culled a lot of our munchies, but I would still take the muesli bars, the glucose jelly-beans, the space food sticks and the sesame snaps/mixed nuts & sultanas.

However, just today when I was out shopping, I thought of those noodle-in-a-cup things (the ones where you just add boiling water to the cup). They take up a fair bit of room, but are extremely light and disposable once used. I am thinking of taking some of these next time I trek.

Thoughts anyone?

fluppy

Day Pack

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 03:46:06 +0000

The other day I was browsing ebay looking for a day pack to take to New Zealand in february. I ended up buying a new 50 litre Caribee "trekker" for $67

I wasnt expecting too much, but was pleasantly surprised when it arrived. Its sturdy enough and has plenty of room. The only thing it doesnt have is a rain cover which came as a bit of a surprise, I'll just store my stuff in a garbage bag and put that inside the pack in case it rains.

I think this would be the ideal day pack for anyone considering Kokoda who doesnt want to spend a fortune on a day pack.

Trekking Poles

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:08:11 +0000

How Trekking-Poles Help Hikers Maintain Muscle Function While Reducing Soreness

ScienceDaily (June 3, 2010) � A study by academics at Northumbria University has shown for the first time that trekking-poles help hikers maintain muscle function while significantly reducing soreness in the days following a hike.

In the study, 37 physically active men and women were split into two groups of equal fitness and asked to hike up and down Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales.

One group was issued with and trained in the use of trekking poles while the other group made the climb unaided. Each group ate the same evening meal on the night before; they ate the same breakfast, carried similar weight in day packs and took the same scheduled rests during both the ascent and descent.

The participants' heart rates and their personal perceived exertion ratings were recorded during the hike. Then, at the end of the hike, and at 24-, 48- and 72-hour intervals afterwards, muscle damage and function were assessed through a variety of tests.

The results showed that there was significantly less muscle soreness in the group using trekking poles. This group demonstrated a reduced loss of strength and a faster recovery immediately after the trek compared to the control group. Self-rated soreness peaked at 24-hours in both groups but was significantly lower in the trekking-pole group, both at this point and at the 48-hour point. In addition, levels of the enzyme creatine kinase (which indicates muscle damage) were much higher at the 24-hour point in the non-pole group, while the trekking-pole group's levels were close to the pre-trekking levels. This shows that the muscle damage they were experiencing was negligible.

Pole manufacturers have suggested that trekking poles can reduce forces on lower-limb joints by as much as 25 %. However, the existing research has been restricted to the laboratory or to non-mountainous outdoor settings, such as running tracks, and has only focussed on biomechanical investigations into stress on the ankle, knee and hip. This is the first documented study into the effectiveness of trekking poles in the environments for which they were designed.

"The results present strong evidence that trekking poles reduce, almost to the point of complete disappearance, the extent of muscle damage during a day's mountain trek," says Dr Glyn Howatson, who conducted the study.

"Preventing muscle damage and soreness is likely to improve motivation and so keep people enjoying the benefits of exercise for longer. Perhaps even more advantageously, the combined benefits of using trekking poles in reducing load to the lower limbs, increasing stability and reducing muscle damage could also help avoid injury on subsequent days trekking. It is often the reduced reaction time and position sense, associated with damaged muscles that cause the falls and trips that can lead to further injury in mountainous or uneven terrain.

"These findings have particularly strong application for exercisers wishing to engage in consecutive days' activity in mountainous terrain."

Of Water, Salt And Death

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 12:26:38 +0000

I was very surprised and deeply shocked watching 60 minutes today to hear that people actually die on the Kokoda Trail because they have not been taught about water and salt. I would have thought it was one of the most fundamental things to teach people doing physically demanding things in a hot climate: drink plenty of fluid but also keep up your electrolytes. There is a number of ways of doing this:

1. Make sure to have a good salt content in your diet - some do gooders try to tell us that salt is bad for us but this originates from a very low percentage of people who get high blood pressure from salt - a very rare condition indeed. Salt restriction may cause you to drop dead now!

2. Add electrolytes like Staminade, Sports Plus, Isostar or even just some salt tablets to your drink rather than have pure water which will leach out all of your vital electrolytes

3. Don't drink absolutely copious amounts, listen to your body rather than someone who may not know the full truth

Happy hiking!

Dr Angie Hayes (BSc, PhD)
Biochemist / Nutritionist

Kokoda Track Safety Package

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 11:09:36 +0000

KOKODA TRACK SAFETY PACKAGE:

RESEARCH PROJECT: POSSIBLE HYDRATION RELATED ILLNESS IN TREKKERS ON THE KOKODA TRACK

In early 2010, a non-profit advisory group Adventure Medicine submitted a proposal to the Kokoda Track Authority for assistance to conduct important research on the Kokoda Track to examine the possibility of hydration related illness in trekkers.

This proposal was considered by the PNG and Australian Governments and was determined appropriate to be funded under the joint Kokoda Track Safety Package. The Adventure Medicine research team conducted the study on the Kokoda Track from 16 to 19 April 2010.

What did the research find?

The aim of the study was to determine the number of individuals on the Kokoda Track who develop low salt levels. Most of the trekkers had normal blood tests results. However, a small number of them did have low salt levels. These trekkers had consumed a large amount of fluid. Fortunately their salt levels were not dangerously low and the doctors were able to intervene and educate the trekkers about the affects of drinking too much fluid.

This study has confirmed that a small number of people can drink too much fluid and potentially become unwell from low salt in their blood, particularly while undertaking arduous treks.

The best way to avoid this is to drink when you are thirsty. Obviously drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration, but don't overdo it!

Why is this research important?

The Kokoda Track has gained increasing popularity for Australian travellers over the last decade. However, as more individuals undergo this challenging trek there has been an increase in the number of people who develop medical complications associated with strenuous exercise.

In 2006 and 2008 there were two reports of healthy trekkers becoming ill because of extremely low salt levels in their blood. Low salt levels occur because individuals drink too much water while exercising. This can lead to serious illness and even death if left untreated.

In the majority of cases trekkers have completed appropriate pre-trek fitness training and obtained necessary medical clearance. However, this type of research helps us to educate tour operators and trekkers about potential problems that can occur while undertaking this type of activity and ways they can reduce these risks.

How was the research conducted?

Three investigators entered the Kokoda Track from Owers Corner and three entered from Kokoda. The two teams of investigators trekked for two days and set up camp in Ioribaiwa Village and Isurava to collect data.

All trekkers who passed the researchers camp on the second day of their trek were approached and asked to volunteer to participate in the study. Almost all trekkers decided to participate, providing researchers with a sample size of nearly 200. Participants answered a brief medical questionnaire and provided a blood sample for immediate analysis.

Who conducted the research?

The principle investigators are Dr Sean Rothwell and Dr David Rosengren from Adventure Medicine. Both are specialist emergency physicians at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital and Greenslopes Private Hospital and they also hold Fellowships from the Academy of Wilderness Medicine. The remainder of the research team is made up of Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital emergency physicians, Dr Julian Williams and Dr Bill Lukin, Emergency Registrar from Port Moresby Hospital, Dr Julius Plinduo, University of Queensland Professor Allan Frost and barrister and former battalion Commanding Officer Mr David Thomae.

Is this research certified?

The research project is approved by the Research Ethics Committee at the Royal Brisbane and Women�s Hospital.

What next?

The results of the study will be submitted for publication and also used to educate trekking companies and future trekkers in the prevention of this condition.

The KTA and Adventure Medicine will continue to work together to produce information for tour operators and trekkers to include in pre-departure safety information.

Additional information

This project is funded by the Australian Government through the joint PNG-Australia Kokoda Track Safety Package, managed by the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA). The Royal Brisbane and Women�s Hospital have also supported the research through providing personnel and loaning two of the iSTAT machines and providing invaluable logistical support. Medical equipment has been donated by Abbott Point-of-Care, Abacus ALS and Queensland Health.

Contact

For more information about the research, contact the research team at http://www.adventuremedicine.net/about-us or phone Dr David Rosengren 0417615223 or Dr Sean Rothwell 0417761281

Or contact the Kokoda Track Authority CEO at email ceo@kokodatrackauthority.org Kokoda Track Safety Package

The Australian and Papua New Guinean Governments are working together to implement a range of safety projects along the Track. This includes a major upgrade of the Owers Corner Road, repairs to other local roads and bridges, safety enhancements at airstrips, improvements to radio communications, assessments of health issues and subsidised first aid training.

$4.9 million in funding has been allocated for these important infrastructure and safety projects, which will benefit local communities and trekkers.

Find out more at http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage/int...koda/index.html

Good Training Hikes For Victorians

Sun, 23 May 2010 10:00:55 +0000

I have found various recommended training hikes on the internet and have been really grateful that someone has posted about them in detail, so I thought I would start a new thread outlining some of my favourite hikes and maybe others can add to it.

Mt Victoria track-Warburton to Mt Donna Buang

This is an excellent hike for serious training. I headed up there today and found a fantastic track that went straight up with just a few flatter areas. Park your car at the bottom of Martyr Rd and head up Martyr rd until you reach the start of the track. It is well marked and easy to follow with two crossings, one at O'Shannassys aquaduct and another at the Mt Donna Buang rd.
Melways ref: 289 K4. You can download and print a map at http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/resources05/05_0508.pdf

The sign at the bottom suggests 7 hours to cover the 12 km trail but I did it in 4 hours. I would suggest allowing 5 though, as I only had time for a 10 minute break at the summit as the day was getting late.

Glasgow Rd track

This track isn't in the Melways but you will find Glasgow Rd at Melways 66 C1. Park at the bottom and head directly up Glasgow rd-don;t turn on any of the fire trails, just stay heading up. This isn't a long trail (maybe 1-1 1/2 hrs?) but you can continue along other tracks at the top. I like going up to Sky High for a coffee. :-)
This is a good hard track and doing it 2-3 times in one stint should be enough to send you home to an Epsoms salts soak!

Dandenong Ranges NP

There are so many walks to be found in the DRNP but one of my favourites is to start at Grants Picnic Ground, cross the road to Tree Fern Track and follow the trail up until it meets with Clematis track. From there I arrive at Sherbrooke Lodge Rd-turn left and follow it for a few hundred metres and turn left into O'Donohue Picnic Ground. From here you can make up your own walk, from any of the tracks. If you print out this map http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/resources05/05_0320.pdf you will find all the trails. I like to head down into Belgrave and grab a cuppa before heading back up to Kallista, following the track o nthe right hand side of the Kallista-Monbulk rd.

Happy hiking everyone! I'll add more as time goes on, including some fantastic hikes around the Grampians.

Accommodation

Sun, 04 Apr 2010 05:09:28 +0000

Sogeri Lodge: I would like to introduce you to reasonably priced accommodation on the outskirts of Port Moresby. The lodge is owned and operated by the former CEO of the Kokoda Track Authority by the name of Warren Bartlett. Sogeri Lodge was opened on the 1st March 2009.

It comprises of comfortable budget accommodation near the start of the Kokoda Track if trekking from Owers' Corner. The lodge is at a cool 470 metres,ASL, 34 Km from Port Moresby on sealed roads which pass the Bomana War Cemetery and follow the Laloki River, past the rounda Hydro Electric Scheme and the Port Moresby Water Suppply.

It is ideal for Kokoda Track trekksing groups or those who would like to get away from Port Moresby for a few days or hold a conference for up to 20 people.

Sogeri Lodge Bus and Landcruisers are available for Port Moresby pick-up and drop off passengers and cargo. Transport to Owers' Corner, nearby Varirata National Park, Historical World War II sites or other Sogeri valley destinations can be arranged by request.

When booking please inform them you heard about the lodge from either of our two png websites:

www.pngbd.com
www.kokodatrekking.com.au

Garmont T8 Boots

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 06:53:58 +0000

http://www.kitbag.com.au/prod1134.htm

As I stated last year I was thinking about getting a pair of T8 Garmont boots. I finally bit the bullet and bought a pair. They are the most comfortable hiking boots Ive ever owned, and Ive owned a few.
The tread pattern is excellent and gives you plenty of grip and they required a minimum of breaking in.
I bought mine from Kit bag in WA ,see above website. I had them in less than a week and with a minimum of fuss.
One thing that might deter some people is that they have a vent in the bottom centre of the boot at the arch of your foot to let out excess water if you are operating in really wet areas, that are fairly deep and the water will flow over your boots .
I overcame this problem with a bit of araldite,then if I intend on going to deep wet places I can just scrape it off.

Accomodation?

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 04:47:24 +0000

I'm planning on doing the trek soon. But the only part I'm not sure about so far is after I catch the flight to Port Moresby what is the process? Meaning: when I get there how to get to the hotel, how to get to the trek or meet up with people to go to the trek etc. So if anyone could explain what they did it would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

Ladies Day Pack With Hydration

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 02:58:09 +0000

Before my Kokoda trek last June I researched long and hard for a suitable day pack.

Actually, that was after I'd jumped in and purchased a hydration day pack that was totally unsuitable. It wasn't until I discovered this forum that I realised just what I was going to need to carry myself ... and the list is fairly extensive. Your day's food requirements plus snacks, cup, bowl and cutlery, first aid kit, sunblock and mozzie off, plenty of water, purification tablets, camera and associated batteries and sim cards, toilet paper, handwash or wipes, lightweight jacket or poncho, notebook/diary and pen, money to purchase fruit, drinks on the track and then a few women's specific bits and pieces. Obviously my first choice wasn't going to do the job, so I sold it on EBbay and began researching.

I ended up with a daypack designed especially for women. The Trinity Camelback. When I looked at other women on the track, wearing obviously uncomfortable and unsuitable packs, I was glad of my choice. To put it bluntly, boobs and most generic daypacks don't mesh comfortably.... especially for 8 or so hours a day. Women are also, more often than not, shorter in the torso than men ...and they have a few extras they sometimes need to carry.

The Trinity camelback weighed in at less than 1.3kg, held 26 litres in cargo volume and had a 3 litre bladder for water, though I usually only carried about 2 litres max and used an extra 1 litre bottle to fill and purify my water. The pack had an outside pocket on each side suitable for carrying this extra water bottle... so that i didn't have to dig into my pack to reach it.

The shorter torso length and curved, fleece-lined harness straps kept me comfortable all day long. I loved the thick, secure waist belt that I could tighten to transfer some weight away from my neck and shoulders, so i didn't get sore at all. I typically have a bad back, but this pack was super comfortable. The front pocket organizer was terrific for women, with little sections to keeps things like sun block and lip balm etc from disappearing, and there were plenty of compression straps to pull it in tight.

I wear prescription glasses and always have either my normal ones or my sunglass version on. This pack has a fleece-lined glasses section right at the top, out of the way.. so that it was never an issue finding them, or any danger that they would be damaged by a fall. This glasses section could also be used for an ipod as it had a little hole for the earphone cord to come out.

We experienced quite a lot of rain on our trek, sometimes extremely heavy downpours. I had most things in my pack sealed in small waterproof bags just in case, but the pack remained dry inside always. I did carry a pack cover but found after its first use that it was clumsy and made it difficult to access the pack quickly, so I did away with using it.

I honestly cannot think of anything I didn't like about this pack. It was just so comfortable to wear. They sell for around $180-$200 mark, but I found my on sale at one of those large cmaping stores for half price. I see one on ebay at the moment, new with tags, for about $90 US including postage.

Lkf Hiking Group Adelaide Sa

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 07:58:45 +0000

Legacy Kokoda Fraternity (LKF) Hiking Group - Adelaide, South Australia

Following the success of the Legacy Kokoda Walk from Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty on 30 August (with 149 walkers completing the trek in bleak and wintry conditions), a Hiking Group has been formed.

The aim of this group is to meet regularly and provide an opportunity for like-minded hikers to get some fresh air, enjoy the local scenery, and improve their fitness at the same time.

On 11 October the Group took a challenging 14 km stroll along part of the Heysen Trail, from Norton Summit to Cleland Wildlife Park via Horsnell Gully. Twenty-five keen hikers attempted this �hard slog�.

The next planned walk is on 14 February 2010. Everyone is welcome, and participants should meet in the Waterfall Gully car park before 8.30 a.m.

For more details, contact Jed Richards (jed.richards@macquarie.com) or check out the LKF Facebook site: www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&ref=mf&gid=82592992369

Legacy Kokoda Information Evening - Adelaide

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:29:31 +0000

Based in Adelaide, South Australia, the Legacy Kokoda Fraternity (LKF) is a social network of adventurers who have walked the Kokoda Track or those who intend to do so. It was formed in early 2009 and now has more than 300 members.

As a common interest network, the LKF organises occasional social functions with guest speakers and other events such as regular weekend walks and information sessions for trekkers aspiring to walk the Kokoda Track.

Legacy Kokoda Information Evening

Where: Legacy Club of Adelaide Inc.
102 Franklin Street, Adelaide.

When: Tuesday 2 February 2010, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: Free of charge (but please telephone 8231 9812
to book your seat).

Learn what it takes and how to prepare for one of the toughest treks you could encounter.
Our guest speaker is Wayne Enright, owner and principal trekking guide for Free Spirit Adventures, an Adelaide-based adventure travel company that has been taking groups to the Kokoda Track since 2003.

Wayne is a specialist in team and leadership development, adventure-based learning, and life coaching. He has a background in physical and outdoor education, health counselling, and adventure guiding. Wayne�s adventures have taken him to places such as Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Malaysia, the Pacific Islands, Tasmania�s wilderness areas, and the Australian outback, but his first love is taking groups to the Kokoda Track. Wayne is qualified in Wilderness First Aid and Remote Area Emergency Response Skills, and his company, Free Spirit Adventures, provides a unique �remote adventure preparation� program.

If you (or any of your friends) are contemplating a Kokoda trek sometime soon, come along and get answers to all of your important questions.

Anyone interested in attending should contact Geoff Banks:
Geoff Banks, Development Manager
Legacy Club of Adelaide Inc. 102 Franklin Street Adelaide SA 5000
Email: gbanks@legacyadelaide.org.au Telephone: 08 8231 9812

The Fraternity is keen to build its membership and welcomes your involvement.

Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walks

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:01:15 +0000

Doing some of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walks as part of my preparation.

I understand the majority of these trails follows streams/creeks. Just wondering whether this water is ok for drinking and whether water purification tablets are recommended?

Thanks

Water Filter

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 08:58:36 +0000

These look good
http://www.redbarnworkshop.com/p-4-generic...ion-bottle.aspx

But Ive not seen them in Ozz.

Training Whilst Living In London

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:32:47 +0000

Hi all,

I'm an Aussie currently living in London. I'm doing the Kokoda track with my family in Aug 2010. I'm wondering if anyone who has any ideas regarding training in an area where access to hills isn't exactly great! I've mainly got access to a gym, which I know isn't ideal, but winter in London, nothing is ideal for training! If anyone has any suggestions I'd be open to listening?

Thanx!

Trek & Travel Adventure Showcase- November 21, 2009

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:14:53 +0000

Hi Everyone!

Just a little plug... the trekking store where I work is having our inaugural "Adventure Showcase" on November 21, 2009- from 10am to 5pm.
Our address is 447 Kent Street Sydney.

There will be a sausage sizzle, prizes drawn every hour and a grand prize of a GORETEX jacket drawn at 4pm.
Guest Speakers such as Andrew Lock (Aussie Adventurer of the year- just completed his 14th 8000m summit), Robin Bousted (establisher of the Great Himalaya Trail) and Clark Carter (trekked and paddled the arctic Victoria Island) as well as a Kokoda and Kilimanjaro 'Gurus' will be making presentations on the day.

If you are in or around Sydney, this is an event to put in your diaries. It will be a fantastic opportunity to pick the brains of some really accomplished trekkers and chit chat about gear and preparation your next adventure- whether that is Kokoda, or something else.

I Really REALLY hope I get to meet some of you!!

http://www.trekandtravel.com.au/default.aspx
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=160621058109

Hotel Power

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:38:07 +0000

My husband would like to know what sort of power/plugs does the Gateway Hotel use - is it 240V with the plugs the same as ours:

/ \
I

(sorry, tried to get the computer to 'draw' the power plug)

Or different - like the ones in Europe with the round pins...

Fluppy.

P.S. I hear they have Internet access at the Gateway. If so I'll try to drop everyone a line before we head out.

Plane leaves tomorrow morning from Brisbane Airport at 10am (our time). Thank you everyone for all your support. This forum has been an absolute Godsend over the years that I have been planning this. You have all become my 2nd family.
xxxxxxx

Owers To Kokoda Stops

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:45:00 +0000

Can someone give me an idea of where they stopped each night going Owers to Kokoda so i can tie each day in with the trail map. I bought the dvd which has track notes and rough section times but am wondering where people got to on the first day etc. Thanks in anticipation

I Have The Itchies :(

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 07:43:39 +0000

Got up this morning at 4am to re-set the body clock. After 30 mins of warming up and gentle stretching (still have that groin injury), my hubby & I went for a 40 min walk around the block with our packs.

Anyway, I started itching profusley on my legs. Nope - wasn't the gaiters. The more I sweat, the itchier I became. Then I developed this awful red rash on the inside of my thighs. It is gone now, but geez it really drove me insane >.<

I have also learnt that it is virtually impossible to scratch an itch when one is wearing skins! How can I get around this? Oh and has anyone else had this problem??

fluppy

Sleeping Gear

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:21:56 +0000

Hello trekkers, I am going in August 2010 so have lots of time to get fitter and train. My question is around the sleeping arrangements. I see there are varied responses to sleeping bags, and are they necessary? If I had a good mat would that suffice?

Dnf. Did Not Finish

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:53:22 +0000

It is most disappointing to read of the latest two trekkers who were unable to complete their trek. One can only imagine the anquish both would have gone through in deciding to call it a day on their objective to complete the Kokoda crossing.

Many will no doubt think with my following comments are insensitive however I feel strongly that they need to be said.

As stated frequently, trekking Kokoda is "not a walk in the park". Before deciciding to trek Kokoda, anyone in excess of 50 years of age must take a good hard look at themselves, particularly if of excessive Body Mass Index (BMI) and with pre existing ankle,knee and hip injuries. At age 60 and 18 months out from my crossing in August 2007 this is exactly what I did. Even with a long history of regular indoor and outdoor rowing exercise of 10K plus per day I quickly decided I needed to reduce my BMI and incorporate serious outdoor trekking on tracks that best duplicated the conditions of Kokoda.

Our trekking company insisted on extensive medical reports from my doctor who simply, quite rightly, was not going to "rubber stamp" my own word on my preparation. I had to prove to him that I had completed a satisfactory preparation. It concerns me greatly to learn that when I meet people of my own age group preparing to walk Kokoda that their preparation consists mainly of "perhaps a 10k walk in the park at the weekend".

Intending trekkers need to heed the simple equation that excess BMI equals greater load carrying. e.g. 10kg excess body weight plus day pack of 12kg equals an excessive pack weight, particularly for Kokoda.

Cheers , Geoff Hardie

Stuff

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 02:54:19 +0000

I'm about to post some pics up. Would like your help in trying to cut down our gear if it's possible or if this is pretty much what everyone usually takes (we got everything on our gear list).

Also - things like toothbrushes etc have not yet been taken out of their packets, so there is an awful lot of excess packaging at the moment. Clothing already packed in dry sacks. And water is not included as yet. I'm guessing once we're past customs, we can ditch a lot of the medical packaging. But still, any hints, tips etc would be great.

First up, foot care - which is sitting on felt from the orthopedics for sore spots. This will be cut up into strips & put into a zip-loc bag: Blister packs, spray plaster, Vaseline, small tube of intensive care cream (more 1st aid supply than 'foot care'), Tinea powder, anti-fungal cream.

http://www.kokodatrail.com.au/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=8535

Next, basic 1st aid stuff (spray plaster as regular bandaids won't stick re;
humidity): Eye drops for dry eye (me), spray plaster, cotton buds, small & medium crepe bandages (for sprains etc), salt (leeches), Medi-pack instant ice pack (like a glow-stick - snap and it works) Just don't know how to keep it from setting off without the packaging. Put in-between clothes maybe?

http://www.kokodatrail.com.au/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=8536

Basic hydration stuff & medications - Headache tablets (Panadeine), Purification tablets, antihistamines, Voltaren tablets, glucose jelly-beans, Gastrolyte/Hydrolyte, Salt-replacement tablets. We decided to nick off with the Tang as it was extra packaging... How to condense the Staminade (green container to the left) into zip-loc bags? Maybe once we are past customs we can do this?

http://www.kokodatrail.com.au/forums/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=8537

Training - Mt Barney

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 08:51:16 +0000

If you are located in the Brisbane, Ipswich/Boonah way, I highly recommend doing this mountain for your training.

Lots of hills, tree roots, boulders, climbing and scrambling - although can be quite harsh on the knees/ankles on the way down.

We walked/climbed/scrambled for around 6 hrs and still didn't make it to the top. Adviseable to leave around 5am/6am to complete the walk. Track is only marked twice (as far as we made it - nearly to 'the saddle'), so make sure you stick to the track.

A lot of people in Brisbane do their training on Mt. Cootha. This mountain (Mt Barney) makes Mt Cootha look like a miniture speed bump on a child's playset. So don't attempt it if you think Mt Cootha is 'difficult'

A bit of bush, a bit of rugged terrain, a bit of rainforest, a bit of walking on the edge of ridges (single file only), a bit of small pebbles the size of bricks and a bit of boulders the size of a giant marshmellows on steroids. A bit of everything really. A good walk.

Right shoulder is killing me and my calf muscles are going to explode out of the skin in my legs, but all is good and I have never appreciated a hot, hot shower before the way I did when we got home!

fluppy

Injury Freak Out

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 02:11:22 +0000

Ok, so 3 weeks ago, I was doing some (deep) lunges in my combat class and because of my over-flexibility, I overstretched. I pulled a groin muscle. Not a surface muscle, but one of the smaller deep groin muscles underneath all those surface muscles.

I am now 4 and a half weeks out from trekking and it still hasn't healed *cries* Yes, done the heat packs, the Voltaren, the Elmore Oil and little stretches like the 'butterfly stretch'.

I haven't been able to train properly lately because of it and I was planning to use the next to weeks to really up the ante on my training so that I could have the last 2 weeks completely off before I trek Kokoda.

I am now in panic mode stressing out that I am back to square one with my training and worried that all my previous training has now just gone to waste

If anyone has any ideas or advice or even just a kind word to help make me feel better (ice-cream & chocolate don't always do the trick), it would be much appreciated.

fluppy

Environmentally Friendly Soaps. What Did You Use?

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:46:39 +0000

Apart from Sea To Summit soaps, what other options are out there? I tried Googling, but got overwhelmed by the information.

So...what did you take?

Gear Hire In Sydney

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 01:18:20 +0000

Ok, so my trekking partner and I are off on some trial runs this weekend (hopefully this weekend) and some more in the weeks to come primarily to test our gear but have come across an issue - we need to hire a trangia metho cooker (or similar) as there are campfire restrictions leading up to Summer at present. I'm sure as hell not going to get enough use out of it to warrant buying one, so am looking to hire one but can only find places way out of the city. Now I don't believe for a moment that I can't get my hands on a hire one in Sydney somewhere, so does anyone know of a place where I can rent them for a few days at a time?

Any help appreciated.

Munchies Along The Track. What Did You Take Or What Did You Wish You

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 11:46:55 +0000

I am kind of stuck on what to take here (other than glucose jelly beans). I am looking at space saving snacks and snacks that are light, but give me a bit of extra energy/nutrition to get me to the next stop until our major meals (so no Baked Beans - as these come in cans and therefore add extra weight). Also no snacks like chips/crisps etc as these make you thirsty.

Here's what I am thinking of so far (not that any of these particularly take my fancy - I'm not really a snack-type person)

Muesli bars? Fruit bars? Those little sultana/nut packs (the kind that go into kid's lunchboxes)?
Hubby wants space food sticks (yuk!), Le-snacks? Biscuits - although these might go soggy with the humidity...

I am stuck because I am primarily a major fruit person. I am not a lolly person and chocolate is no good in the heat as it will melt and go everywhere. I have read that you are not allowed to take fruit into Papua New Guinea. Does dried fruit (eg - apple slices/apricots etc) in a packet count?

I have tried those protein energy bars and won't be doing them again as I found them revolting!

So...any ideas??

fluppy

Practice Trek - Perrys To Lockleys

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 01:27:48 +0000

Hi all,

In preparation for Kokoda at the end of the year / early next year my trekking partner and I are obviously going to do our best to train on some hard tracks nearby. I've seen reference to a few people having done the Perry's Lookdown trek into Blue Gum Forest but was wondering if anyone had done the trek from Perry's to Lockley's pylon on the opposite side of the forest?

We are planning to spend three days in the area, starting at Perry's on the first and trekking to Lockley's and back and camping back at Perry's overnight, then repeating the next day and the day after.

Any thoughts / advice welcome!

Seal Skinz Socks

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 18:13:22 +0000

My son told me about these socks some time ago, a lot of military types wear them and find them very good when operating in wet weather.

They do retail for about $70 a pair, but the guys Ive spoken to swear that its worth the cost to have dry feet for several days.

http://www.mtbbritain.co.uk/sealskinz_gloves_socks.html

Quick Gear Questions

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 02:30:41 +0000

Hi all!

Firstly, I would like to say that as I prepare myself for Kokoda later this year with my mate, I have found this site to be invaluable - thank you all so much!

Although I myself have done many long, hard treks (mostly at the mercy of the Australian Army Cadet Corps) I am faced now with a new, unexpected challenge. On those treks we slugged it out with ex-military gear. Although this sounds fancy, alot of it is rubbish pre-Vietnam era gear that has been quite poorly looked after since being decommissioned. So the challenge I have now is - choice! There is so much gear out there and just sifting through the endless list of possible gear combinations is starting to do my head in. I've sorted through most of it and find myself coming to what I hope is the last of the gear checklist queries.

First and foremost, I am in need of a pack. Whilst this in itself is fairly self-explanatory, I'm having a hard time working out what exactly is being referred to in the term 'raincover'. Is this a cover that can be wrapped around a pack whilst wearing the pack or is it a cover for when the pack is not being worn? I'm used to getting wet while trekking, and don't much care for raincoats/ponchos as far as protecting myself is concerned (cold weather excepted!). My pack on the other hand, is something I would like to keep dry! Specifically, I am looking at purchasing a Deuter 70+ 15L Aircontact Pro Pack for around $450. So if anyone has any info with reference to that particular brand, that would be helpful.

Secondly, walking poles. I've rarely used them, and didn't much like them when I did, but I've seen reference to them frequently on here and would like to know if they fit into that 'necessary' category? They are one of the few pieces of gear that I am considering for this trip which will not be used after this trek, so if I do opt for one, can I buy a cheapie? I mean, it is just a piece of aluminium right?

Thirdly, if a pack is 'hydration bladder compatible', to what extent does that apply? Is this just a specially shaped pocket? Or does it allow for the tubing etc to run straight out of the pack to the wearer?

Finally (for now at least! LOL), what are people's thoughts on pocket knives / multi-tools? I'm considering taking my trusty Leatherman (which has seen me through quite a few treks!) but haven't really seen the topic mentioned here. Is it going to be an unnecessary piece of kit?

Any and all advice welcome! Thanks in advance!

Cheers,

Mark

Female Health And Hygiene

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 06:35:36 +0000

Hello Lady trekkers - After many years of military training I thought this info may be of interest for any female trekkers out there wondering how they are going to stay healthy whilst trekking in the tropics. These tried and proven habits have worked without fail for myself and my female friends and we have never been sick or infected due to poor hygiene etc.

Ok the facts - females have moist body parts. We need to stay clean and free of bacteria that is partcularly associated with sweating and toilteing. In the tropics, bacteria will breed rapidy and a slight 'itch' down there in the morning can be a raging skin infection by the afternoon. So here are my tips-

1. WAXING -I f you are a brazillian waxer, stop before you trek and allow your hair to grow to a point where it is coming through the skin to a length of about 5mm. By doing this you avoid the risk of infection caused when a hair folicle is restricted in its growth through the skin due to your underwear constantly rubbing whilst hiking. Likewise, if you are not a waxer, trim you hair to 5mm also. Remember, short is clean.

2. UNDERWEAR - Buy good fitting underwear in black. I use to like Sloggi aerobic knickers because they were well fitting and didnt 'ride up'. I always wore black so I never really saw how filthy they got and I just threw them out at the end of training/trekking. Same with a bra - buy black.

3. TOLIETING - This is the most important part.........stick to it or risk infection! You need to have individually wrapped anti-bacterial wipes, a large number of panty liners and re-sealable sandwich size bags. You also need to have pants and shirts with good size pockets in them (imagine a military uniform style with leg pockets and chest pockets etc). In your top chest pocket you carry a zip lock bag with half a dozen panty liners and twice as many anti-bac wipes. This is your clean pocket and you restock it from your big pack each morning.

Whenever you go to the toliet you must cleanse yourself using the anti-bac wipe (you get use to it being wet and it cleans better than loo paper etc) instead of toilet paper and you must change the panty liner in your knickers every time also. This way you are cleansing yourself with a anti-bac preparation and you are also removing any bacteria in your old panty liner. It is just like putting on clean underwear EVERY time you go to the toilet. Trail the anti-bac wipes at home first to ensure they dont irritate your skin.

Your now dirty-anti-bac wipe and your old panty liner now get rolled up and placed in another zip lock bag in your trouser pocket. This is your dirty bag. At the end of the day you remove your entire dirty zip lock bag to your big pack pack for removal from the track at the end of the journey. Each morning place in your pockets your new clean bag (liners and wipes) and your empty zip lock dirty bag and you are ready for the day with no need to go to your pack.

For a final clean up, finish by washing your hands with a fresh/new anti back wipe. Your hands are now germ free also!

These tips ensure no rubbish is left behind on the track and most importantly you remain healthy and free of bacteria whilst trekking.

Hope this helps. Any other great ideas out there?

Sleeping Mats

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 05:15:00 +0000

I'm in the process of researching sleeping mats and have uncovered a huge array of styles, weights, lengths, some with down fill but self inflating, some with sponge and self inflating, different r level ratings etc. etc. Please give me some feedback as to what worked for you on Kokoda or point me to where it has been discussed before. Cheers.

Mt Ngungun (na-gun-gun) - Glasshouse Mountains

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 02:16:22 +0000

I went there yesterday to do some training. Oh my golly gosh! I honestly am really having doubts about my fitness now. Maybe not so much my fitness, but my ability to cope with my asthma. I had to stop 3 times because I was literally out of breath.

Uphill all the way, scrambling over rocks, boulders, tree roots and mud (my boots have now officially passed the test).

'Twas amazing to see children. Children! Scale it like it was just new playground equipment - but then again, they were not carrying 7kg (I didn't want to damage my pack, so took the rest of the weights out), were not asthmatic and had loads of energy (I wonder if it's true that energy decreases with age - it's a conspiricy I tell you )

Anyway, has anyone walked up Mt Ngungun before? I'd like to know if it comes anywhere minutely near replicating the track of Kokoda (minus the humidity - just the track itself) so I can either step-up the training or remind myself to bring a small tank of oxygen!

I know that my self-confidence is the biggest hurdle I will have to overcome, but this truly exemplified (to me) how unfit I am *cries*

Backpacks

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 06:10:41 +0000

Hi, I'm in the market for a new backpack/hicking pack for my wife and my self. We travelled and worked around U.K. and Europe for 2 years and had Black Wolf Travel packs. They did the trick but just held in there. We want to upgrade but their are too many brands out there. To list a few we have been researching Macpack, Wilderness Equipment, One Planet, Dueter, Tatonka, Berghaus. Are there any stand outs or any to stear clear of. Hoping to pay around the $350 range. Looking for one with a day pack around the 75 ltr and one without around the 60 ltr. Thanks for ya help

Berowra To Cowan

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 09:56:14 +0000

Last Sunday, the 3 of us that are going to Kokoda next month did the Berowra to Cowan walk.

It starts at the carpark at Berowra railway station and can end up either at Cowan railway station or back at Berowra, depending on which track you take for the last 3klm of the walk.

The walk itself is mostly either up or down, it goes for about 12 klm and takes about 6 hours at a leisurely walk.Maybe leisurely walk isnt quite the right descrition,its quite a hard slog and very slow going but well worth the effort.

Weve also done Perrys Lookdown to Bluegum Forest and back at Blackheath, the Golden Stairway to the Federal Pass track at Katoomba and the Six Foot Track from Katoomba to the Jenolan Caves.

All these are excellent training tracks and maps are available on the internet for them all.

Hitec Altitude Ultra

Sun, 10 May 2009 15:20:15 +0000

Hey guys,
The name is James and along with my father and brother we are heading to Kokoda at the end of July and we are in the process of selecting an appropriate set of boots for the trip.

These boots won't be a one off use (ie. we anticipate doing more serious treks in the future) so quality and durability is important. We dropped into Anaconda today just to check out their selection, and were particularly interested in the Hitec Altitude Ultra (seen here: http://www.wetisdry.com/) mainly because I'd read a bit about it online and it was the most expensive boot in the store at $300.

Being Anaconda the girl who helped us was about 16 and had no idea about anything and couldn't really provide any decent feedback on the pros and cons of any of the boots, so I thought I'd drop in here and seek your advice.

Having done my research, I've read a lot of good and bad reviews for the Altitude Ultra. Some websites have suggested it is a decent entry level boot (entry level at $300?!??!?!), but is nothing special and will not cope well in wet conditions, whilst others have been more positive regarding the quality of the boot. This has basically left me confused and unsure on whether spending $300 on these boots is such a good idea, or should we be looking in a higher price range?

I plan to go into a proper camping store and seek proper advice but I thought I'd talk to you experts first. Is the Altitude Ultra really an entry level boot, that whilst being ok is nothing special? Will it not be appropriate for Kokoda? Will it be a boot that can be used in the future for some other serious hikes? Should we be looking in a higher price bracket, and what brands?

Thanks a lot for the help guys,
James.

Innoculations

Wed, 06 May 2009 09:18:25 +0000

Hi all.

3 of us are doing the trek in July 09 and we were wondering whether or not we should be innoculated against Japanese Encephalitis and Cholera.
I'd be grateful for your veiws.

Training In And Around Perth

Tue, 05 May 2009 14:20:41 +0000

I'm about a year out from my intended trek and would like to get in touch with potential trekkers from Perth with the intention of doing some training walks(ie Bibblemun stuff) over the next 12 months. Any out there???

Kokoda With Heart

Tue, 05 May 2009 06:54:18 +0000

Should you ever get the chance to see the Film/DVD of "Kokoda with Heart" you must do so it is by far the best that I have personally seen. Trekking Kokoda at 70 I experience very much the same emotions and feelings that those in this film did. Do also view, if you can, the extra tracks not in the film itself. They were a little luckier weather wise than we were as we had rain 7 days on our 10 day trek.

Do not let what you see discourage you quite the opposite let it encourage you to train even more and what is more important to trek Kokoda as many have done before coming back with the experiences, emotions and memories that will live with you the rest of your life.

"Kokoda with Heart" does not promote any trekking company but is a must for anyone considering trekking Kokoda and even more so for those who have.

Search for the DVD "Kokoda with Heart" on the net I purchased mine after doing so $35 plus post worth every cent.

Just found the site again for that DVD it is:-

http://www.zipperandstent.com.au/kokoda.htm

Another Trekker Dies?

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:46:12 +0000

In the past week or more I have read with so much sadness, of the death of 2 trekkers the last one only 26 years of age, only a year older than my eldest son. and of 3 trekkers (possibly more) being choppered out suffering from dehydration.
People, This is not a walk in the park! This is largely an untamed and primitive country; there is no direct medical help once you leave Kokoda/Owers for your trek.. There are no medi-vac helicopters and at most times there is no direct radio contact. If you are lucky, you will have someone in your party who has first-aid experience.
Please head this advise, take all precautions that are available, use purification tablets in your water, do not be tempted to drink water that is not purified or boiled no matter what your porters tell you, use an anti bacterial hand wash and wipes, and at the risk of being shot down in flames, make sure that when you use the toilet facilities on the track, use the utmost precautions, wash your hands thoroughly after with an anti bacterial wash and use anti bacterial wipes.
We, in Australia have lived our lives with quarantined water systems, we have been conditioned to wash our hands before handling food, after the toilet, and all our utensils are washed in hot soapy water to hopefully kill any bacteria that may be left. We are conditioned to use anti bacterial wipes, cleanses, in fact everything these day�s have some sort of anti-bacterial quantity and we are so anti- bacterial zed, we have no real immunity to the real germs and bacteria that can cause the debilitating diarrhoea and vomiting experienced in PNG, not just the Kokoda track, but PNG in general. In my opinion, most of the trekkers are being lulled into a false sense of security.
There has been a lot of posts here about going outside your comfort zone, when in Rome etc etc etc And yes to a certain extent, they are right, Kokoda is being taken outside your comfort zone, but again, and I speak from experience, this is not the same Kokoda track that the diggers walked, they faced hardships, but of a different kind, they faced diarrhoea, but not from the elements, the diarrhoea came largely from the contaminated tins of bully beef they ate. My father, after the war, walked Kokoda as a Kiap numerous times, and he left an entire audio tape on his last trek in 1954 with the Papua Infantry Battalion detailing the difference from then to what it was in the war and one thing he points out is the difference he found with good food, organised hygiene and (obviously) not being shot at!
Your training should be rigorous and hard, EVERY trekker should have a medical, and I know that not all trekking company�s insist on one, make this your personal obligation! Personal hygiene is so very important. Just to give an example, not a good one I fear, but two PNG citizens came down from PNG for the opening of the Kokoda Wall at the Gold Coast, I took them back to the airport after a week on the Gold Coast, both suffering a terrible cold, which really debilitated the elder of the two for two weeks after returning to PNG, however no-one in our group or in close proximity to them suffered from the same complaint, they had obviously picked up a bug that we, as Australians, had developed a certain immunity to.
To the families of those who have lost their loved ones, it is small comfort I know, but they are in good hands, the spirits of thousands of good men are up there with them, looking after them.

When Cell Phone Signals

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 05:49:09 +0000

When Mobile Phone Signals Die

Hi

One of my many hobbies is Amateur Radio from my car given right conditions I can talk to other Radio Amateurs around the globe. I also have a GPS interfaced to my radio that when turned on depending on speed will send out a location beacon including height, speed and exact location from 10 minutes when stationary to every 2 minutes when over 80KPH.

I also at times use my GPS when necessary when bush walking hence my interest in GPSs etc.

Perhaps you have come across the Spot Satellite Personal Tracker that is capable of tracking you any where on the globe and able to send a message via Satellite and Internet to let your contact track you via Google Maps any where that you may be. You can even send emergency messages via it as well.

It is I personally feel expensive for a single individual to purchase and subscribe to although with a group this may not be the case.

I am posting this more for your interest than anything else and to let you know what type of tracking technology is available these days.

You may care to look at the site that I found:-
www.spot.nextdestination.com

Will not be getting one myself, my wife Maureen says yet another "Boys Toy"

Brian
PS: My Amateur Radio Call Sign is VK4BBS

Death Of Trekker On Track

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 09:30:05 +0000

It was very sad to read in today's newspapers, the reported death of a 34 year old mother of two whilst trekking Kokoda. It would appear it was not a trekker with KTL.
Whilst the full circumstances are not yet known it is nevertheless important for all contemplating walking the Track to understand that it is far removed from a "walk in the park" and serious preparation is an absolute necessity. Trekking from either end, particularly from Owers, you immediately encounter serious stepness which will severly test the full extent of your preparation.

Geoff Hardie

Trekking Gear

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:22:53 +0000

Hi

I have just returned from a 5 day rather wet Easter camp at Bigriggen near Brisbane whilst there I meet with Shaun and Pippa Ford who much like ourselves enjoy camping and walking even in the wet.

One thing lead to another and we got around to talking about Kokoda amongst other things the gear that I used whilst trekking Shaun then informed me that he had a small quantity of Black Wolf gear that he and friend had acquired for their group I believe for a trek that never took place.

I understand that they have Backpacks, Hydro Day packs and sleeping bags etc all brand new never used that they no longer have use for.

I mentioned to Shaun that whilst too late for myself that I would make mention of it on this site as I felt that there may possibly be some who were looking for such gear.

If you wish to follow up on this Shaun's email address is:-
splford@yahoo.com.au

Leave it with you.
Brian

Easter Equipment Sales

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 02:15:51 +0000

just been in to local Kathmandu store and they have got some good discounts going on gear.50% off walking poles, short gaiters, walking socks, sleeping mats, head torches and light weight sleeping bags. Katmandu is not my preferred outdoor/ed equipment supplier but there is some good gear at reasonable prices, including clothing also. Sale starts thursday.
regards
Pete Dowling

Day Pack Capacity

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 02:32:09 +0000

As far as i can work out my day pack will have one days food ration pack, two litre water bladder, two by one litre water bottles. camera and not much else. From experience what size day pack is recommended and is there any specific brands i should be steering clear of.

First Time Jitters

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:27:52 +0000

Hi all trekkers,

I am contemplating doing the trail in September. I am looking at a 9 day, 8 night package.

My main concerns are:

1. The malaria - with medication and a good repellant/net on your tent, how high are
the risks?

2. Parasite and similar - I read a case of a lady who did the trail, and came back and
a month or so later, was infected with parasites.

3. Risk of robbery etc by machete-wielding bandits. Is this likely?

4. I was considering hiring much or the equipment I would want. e.g. Tent, sleeping bad
, self-inflating mattress. Would this be a good idea? Does anyone know if you are required to
clean these items before returning them generally?

5. I will by a good set of hiking boots if I do go though. How good is the water repellant spray
you get at camping/hiking stores?

Thankyou sincerely to any and all who can help with with any of these.

This will be my first trip out of Australia! I am 30. So it will be quite an experience for me.

Thankyou.

Blisters - Now What?

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 22:46:09 +0000

My new scarpa boots are still giving me blisters on the back of the heel. I'm using vaseline on my feet, a thin pair of inner socks and proper hiking socks. Now what??? Should I stop wearing the boots and training until the blisters have healed or should I keep going with the aid of blister packs, taping etc??

A couple of weeks ago I ended up with whoppers of blisters on the backs of my heels. This surprised me as I'd been wearing the boots around for quite some time without incident. It wasn't unitl I put on my backpack and went for a hike in them that the problem occured. That time I stopped wearing the boots till the blisters eventually healed. Today I headed out again, this time prepared with a first aid kit in my pack. About 1km in to the walk I felt some hotspots so stopped and taped my heals. However I've still ended up with blisters on the acks of both heels.

I'm very keen to know if readers have trained through blisters, or waited till they've healed. Also, with the blister packs i've purchased I notice there is a large piece of thick cushiony adhesive included. Do I cut this to size and use tape to hold it in place? And once on - do I leave it on ( say for the duration of the Kokoda trek) or change it each day??

Thanks in advance,

Heat Acclimatisation?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:20:02 +0000

Hi,

I live in Melbourne and I'm doing the trek in July, so I will be going from the middle of a Melbourne winter to something much hotter and more humid. Has anyone ever tried heat acclimatisation before? I've been reading about it and it sounds quite beneficial (especially since I'm not usually a summer person to start with). I'm going to be in Cairns for 6 days before I start the trek, but have read that it can take 3 weeks, so was contemplating jumping on an exercise bike for a couple of hours a day in a warm room in the 2 weeks leading up to when I leave for Cairns. Has anyone had trouble going from a cold winter to the Kokoda Track? Any tips/personal experiences/opinions appreciated.

Cheers

Kerryn

River Crossing Footware

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 02:47:33 +0000

Has anyone used reef boots for crossing streams etc on the track? These are normally made from wet suit material and have a thick sole and the sides cover the heel and ankle. Some have studs for added traction in slippery conditions .
Would these be better than sandles etc?

Training Buddies

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 01:53:30 +0000

Hi There,

I'm in Sydney's inner west (Marrickville) and am trekking in April. Wondering if anyone is interested in meeting up for some training? I would love a buddy!

Anth.

Packing The Back Pack

Sat, 17 Jan 2009 04:09:27 +0000

Hi all,

I am planning on doing the kokoda with a shared porter (that is 2 of us will carry full back packs but have 1 porter between us to take some of the load).

I have purchased a Mac Pac 70Litre Back Pack and am trying to figure out if it's better to have the thermarest packed inside the Back Pack or strapped outside. - any suggestions? Is it too much hassle strapping it on each day?

The other think is water bottles, I hate using the camel packs. Any comments on those water bottles that have the caribener for clipping on the outside of the pack? My pack does not have pockets for water bottles.

Mac Pac have advised me that I don't need an outside water cover just an internal liner for rain protection.

I will be carrying, clothes, sleeping bag, thermarest, day pack of food etc - basically everything except tent.

Thanks in advance
Phil P

Shoes For Hiking

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:37:17 +0000

As an old saying goes:"a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step "So shoes you wear rank the first place when you go ahead.
Welcome to the www.nikeboss.com to fimd your favouriate for hiking.As a specialised exporter in China,we mainly deal in brand shoes:Nike Dunk,Nike James,Nike Shox,Air Force,Air Jordan,Adidas .
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Food Allergies

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 04:18:18 +0000

My brother, husband and I would like to do the Kokoda trek sometime soon but we are concerned about being able to get ration packs that are gluten free or dairy free OR both. We have fairly severe reactions to these foods so its really important that we eat the right foods, I can imagine the trek would not be much fun when having to deal with the various reactions we get. Does anyone know of a reliable company that caters for these allergies in ration packs? Preferably in Australia. Thanks, Krys.

Pre And Post Accomodation

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 10:29:05 +0000

Hi all,

I'm booked in for the 492 ANZAC trek from 17-25 april this year. I fly in to POM, on the pm of 15th April and out on 26th April. I'm looking to see if there is anyone on the same trek or about the same time that is interested in sharing a hotel room with me in POM for any, or all of 15,16 and 25th april? I am yet to find accom but if you have booked accom and want someone to share with, or would like to share with me when I find somewhere, let me know!!

Other than that- i'm looking forward to meeting everyone on my trek (and those that arent) as well as doing this amazing trek!

Anthea.

Spare Shoes

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:24:11 +0000

Hi,

I already have a good pair of Columbia Gortex hiking boots. I've heard that I need to take a spare pair of shoes in case by boots break, so I've been looking around for a lighter pair of walking shoes. I think that I will need something that is supportive but still lightweight with a fair bit of grip. So far all the shoes at the hiking stores have felt really uncomfortable. One of the shop assistants suggested something that was more like a non-waterproof trail runner (Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra), and said that some people do the whole trek in these. Does anyone have any suggestions? Do you think that a good pair of runners would be OK instead of a proper walking shoe? What kind of shoes have other people worn?

Thanks

Kerryn

Crocs

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 07:49:27 +0000

I just wanted to pass on my recommendation for crocs (the shoe). I walked in August 08 and again in September 08, and took my crocs rather than a spare pair of sandshoes and thongs. Crocs are comfortable, lightweight and highly adaptable. Although a little bulky, they can be clipped to the outside of your pack and are a welcome relief when you take your boots off. They are also great for toilet trips at night, crossing rivers and endless mud puddles, keeping feet dry in socks when walking around camp, walking when your boots give out (although don't like being sucked down by clay) and wearing home on the plane when you can't look at your boots anymore!

Socks

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:42:14 +0000

9 day trek + 1 night extra stay to compose myself before I fly home to Australia.

So...10 days...Being aware of every inch of my pack... How many socks should I take - given that they'll be wet and sweaty every day anyway?

I was thinking about 4 pairs. Is this enough or too many?

Here are the brand I have purchased today (only 2 pairs for now): 'Smartwool - Adrenaline Hiking' medium cushion for hiking, trekking & mountaineering.

www.smartwool.com

Bought at my local camping store for $32.95 a pair - so they had better be good
Did I get a good buy or did I waste my money? Would like to know before I purchase any more...

Adrenaline Dumping/muscle Fatigue

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 05:38:45 +0000

I have just walked up and down a flight of stairs 50 times with my 9kg pack (20 x 1 step at a time, 20 x 2 steps at a time and 10 x one step at a time).

My legs and hands - mostly legs now have the shakes ('wobbly legs'). Yes, I did stretch prior to doing this. I am figuring it is either a big adrenaline dump or muscle fatigue. This happened last time I did 60 steps 10 times (local water-tower) and as it is involuntary, I am unable to stop it.

Wondering what I can do about this. I don't really think it's a good idea to have 'wobbly legs' on the track

Hydration/day Pack

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 08:13:57 +0000

My kids bought me a Black Wolf Python hydration pack for christmas. It has a 3 litre bladder and is rated as holding 15 litres of gear. However, by the time I fill the bladder and add 2 x 1 litre additonal water bottles it's practically full. Can anyone offer advice on just what I need to carry myself? I'm hiring a porter. Do I carry my first aid kit, day snacks, loo paper, sunscreen/mozzie off, poncho, camera.... in my daypack so that i don't need to be bothering my porter throughout the day? Or can I get gear from him if need be ( such as my first aid kit)?

Also would appreciate some guidelines on the size of the daypack. Would 25 litres be big enough?

Thanks

Foam Camping Mats

Sat, 20 Dec 2008 23:07:54 +0000

The sort that roll up and you put your sleeping bag on top of them.

Is there a particular brand that people liked? I've been looking at the Roman Moon Mats brand self-inflating mats. Small, compact & light-weight - but I've seen just regular blue foam ones that you can buy from any camping store/BCF - only they're pretty bulky (even if they are light-weight)

What I'd like to know (from people's personal experience - not just what the company says) about the Roman (or similar brand) self-inflating mats are: 1) how easy are they to pack up - can you do it in a hurry if need be and 2) how sturdy - wear & tear wise are they? No point in getting one if they get holes in it easily - I don't imagine you could just pull out an 'instant repair/puncture kit while you are trekking...

http://www.roman.com.au/website17.aspx?pro...;midparent=1582

Unpleasantries Of Bowel Motions

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 05:16:52 +0000

Now, this is a slightly embarrassing topic, so I am sorry if it offends anyone...

I know we all go on about the squirts and the things to do to avoid that - purification tablets etc, but just wondering if anyone has experienced the opposite (ie - constipation) whilst trekking Kokoda.

Both my friend (who is not trekking with me) and I suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and stomach cramps, constipation and the squirts are all a part of it

So...having heard about the uh...'unique' smell of the toilets and really not wanting to do a Sudoku puzzle to pass the time in there (ie - I want to be in and out as quick as possible - but this is not always 'doable' ), I was wondering what sort of things I could do to I don't know...deal with this situation?

Should I just dig my own hole and sit there for as long as it takes? Are you allowed to do this? How big/deep should it be and how far away from the campsite? Don't want to get lost

Lately it hasn't been of concern. However, my partner (who is trekking with me) has a similar problem in that his bowel motions won't 'work' when he is camping. 3 or 4 days is usually fine and he goes as soon as we get home, but this is a 9-day trek. I just don't think it's possible for someone to hold-on that long (not without some major discomfort if not damage to their system)...

Leeches

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:38:14 +0000

Many? I mean am I likely to encounter a lot of them on the track?

Reason I'm asking is the other day we did a hike and forgot the salt. So quick thinking, I peeled the tomato of the sandwhiches (which had salt on them) and used that to get them off our ankles

It worked and so a discussion came up on some preventative measures. My hubby has come up with a novel idea - make a vaseline/salt paste. Rub this onto the tops/sides of your boots and around the bottom of your gaiters. Also acts as a water repellant as well. He wants to know if anyone has actually tried this and whether or not it would work so he wouldn't have to be stopping every 10-15 mins to pour some salt onto his legs.

Must admit, I'm not quite sure what to make of his idea. No reason why it wouldn't work of course - or is there?

Port Moresby Airport

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 02:32:10 +0000

Hi,

I'm female and will be 20 when I do the trek. My mum is worried about me arriving at Port Moresby airport by myself. All I plan on doing in PM is arriving at the airport, going straight to the Gateway Hotel on their shuttle bus and then back to the airport to leave for Kokoda. Can anyone tell me if I should have any concerns in doing this alone? Is the airport relatively safe and easy to navigate? Do people speak good English? Is the Gateway shuttle bus reliable?

Thanks

Kerryn

Stairs, Stairs And More Stairs

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:49:50 +0000

Using the stepper machine at the gym, but when I can't get into the gym, I have taken to walking up and down the backstairs of our house. There are 12 steps.

Today I walked up and down 30 times consecutavily (can't spell) with my 6kg pack. Then I did two sets of 15 times. Humidity in QLD - rather, Ipswich, is pretty high, but nowhere near as high as PNG I would imagine...

Took it out of me quite a bit today and I realise that one can never be fully prepared for Kokoda, but to train as much as possible.

So...my question is...

Based on the number of steps there are (12), how many times do you think would be a good amount to train each day? I was thinking either 100 times over the course of a day to begin with, building up to 100 times (up and down counts as once) in a row. Or to go up and down the stairs for 2 or 3 hours straight.

I am probably waaayyy off mark here and am thinking it would be more like 500+ times or 8 hours straight to even 'begin' to get a feel for it...

Thoughts/comments anyone?

Training Around Adelaide

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:25:15 +0000

If anyone is preparing to walk Kokoda from around the Adelaide area, and would like some advice on hills to train on, please let me know. Ignore Waterfall Gully, it is too well worn and not steep enough to properly prepare.
Cheers Ian

Flight To Kokoda

Sat, 06 Dec 2008 07:02:27 +0000

Hi,

I'm walking from Kokoda to Owens' Corner and understand that I will be flying from Port Moresby to Kokoda, where I will be meeting the Kokoda Trekking Guides and Porters. Does anyone know whether I have to book the flight, or if the flight is part of the Kokoda Trekking package?

Thanks

Kerryn

Beating Discouragement

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 23:12:13 +0000

Expected the training to be tuff, but the more I train, the more I get discouraged and the more I think that maybe I am really not up to the challenge and I am not as fit as people perceive me to be. Setting out again today with my 6.5kg pack to do a small hill (which is not so small to me given my little steps). Any advice for dealing with discouragement?

I try to tell myself that the more I train, the easier I will find the trek and to just keep going - putting one foot in front of the other. I remind myself that I am not carrying a 20kg+ pack and I have sufficient nutrition and water and that at least I am not being shot at like our Diggers were. This works when I am training, but not when I am at home and I have time to reflect on my day

One For The Ladies

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:47:42 +0000

Just wondering about bras n' things. For the women that have trekked Kokoda, is it better to wear a sports crop top or a normal bra or those tops made by 'Skins'?

I personally am thinking of sports crop tops or 'Skins' (top) as bras can get horribly uncomfortable when you are sweating like mad and heat-rash would be not only a nuisence/inconvenient, but also painful I would imagine...

Any thoughts/comments?

Thanks.

Hydration Pack

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 12:28:18 +0000

What's the trick to get the 'rubber' taint out of water in new hydration packs??
Anyone?? I've got 9 months to go before my 1st trek...
IT TASTES TERRIBLE!!

Salt Replacement Whilst On The Track

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 02:29:50 +0000

I did post something similar on another thread, but it either didn't make it that far or was removed.

Anyway, I'm looking for (edible) things that can replace salt when your body loses it whilst trekking. Yes, there are your electrolyte powders that you add into your water and other drinks, but what sort of things would be useful to munch on?

I don't really like beef jerky all that much :/ so I was thinking (naturally) salt and vinegar chips/crisps. Problem with these is that they tend to make you very thirsty (although at least it will remind you to keep your fluids up...)

I know and cannot stress how important sodium is for your body when doing something as physically taxing as Kokoda as lack of salt in one's diet can also contribute heavily to muscle cramping in the legs/shins/buttocks and shoulders (which can extend then to one's back and neck causing all sorts of problems).

Lack of sodium can also contribute to headaches, dizzyness, hallucinations and delirum.

I'd like to reduce the risk or possibility of these things happening when I trek Kokoda and so I'm looking for some advice or comments on this issue.

What are some edible things I can munch on that will keep my salt intake adequate whilst trekking?

Hydration Pack (camelbak)

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:37:48 +0000

I'm interested to know from previous trekkers whether they took a hydration pack (Camelbak type) and, if so, how useful/essential it is to have one.

Blood Circulation/feeling Cold

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 05:29:54 +0000

When my partner and I took a small 12km hike through some rainforest a couple of weeks ago, I noticed my hands became very cold. Ice cold and then numb after about 4 hrs of walking - even though my body itself was sweating.

This came to my attention again today when I did an itty-bitty walk of only 7km for 2 1/2 hours on the treadmill at gym.

Someone has said that I don't swing my arms enough when I walk (although I think I do). If I swing my arms more than what is natural for me, I not only feel like an idiot, but my gait then becomes awkward. I do not think this will help me when trekking Kokoda in October 2009.

I am a gymnast and quite small for age 29 at only 4ft 8". A friend has suggested it is because I am short that I feel the cold a lot easier. But how can my hands become ice cold while the rest of me is sweating like a pig?

Any thoughts/comments?

Self-inflating Mattresses

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:28:52 +0000

Are these worth buying and which brands should I keep an eye out for? I don't really want to just be sleeping on my sleeping bag in the tent - I might wake up with a very sore back and that's the last thing anyone needs...

I want things as compact as possible in/on my pack so as to 1) leave room for my porter and 2) because less is more if you know what I mean...

Thanks in advance for any advice/comments

One Trekking Pole Or Two?

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:36:26 +0000

I am 4ft 8", so the trekking pole/s I purchase will need to be adjustable for my height. I have heard that some people use two trekking poles. Is this neccessary? Is it more beneficial to use two instead of one or is it just excess baggage?

Visa Application

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 01:02:10 +0000

Hi

I must be blind it must be there some where but as I am supposed to be submitting an application for a visa tomorrow I went looking on this site for the address (Street and postal) etc of Kokoda Trekking.

I just cannot find it and as I have had no correspondence other than emails with them I cannot look at that.

If anyone can help with the info in the next 24 hours it would be greatly appreciated.

Brian

Obtaining Local Currency ?

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:36:05 +0000

HI, could any one who has travelled to PNG advise me on the most cost efficient way to purchase local currency.

My bank can order the currency, but they will only give me a conversion rate of A$1 to K2.1 even though the exchange rate is hovering around A$1 to K2.5.

I was thinking that I may recieve a better rate if I exchanged my money at Jacksons Airport, however the Bank of South Pacific haven't got a phone number listed on their website for this branch.

Also can anyone tell me if the foreign exchange points at Jacksons Airport operate on Saturdays as this is the day I arrive ?

Any thoughts would be appreciated, just trying to save a few dollars here and there.

Thanks, Stewart

Travel Insurance

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:53:41 +0000

Why all Australians should take out travel insurance before going overseas:

Source: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/travel_insurance.html
Australian Government - Dept Foreign Affairs & Trade Website

For most Australians overseas travel is a wonderful experience. Unfortunately, however, every day our consular officers deal with human tragedies involving the death, injury or hospitalisation of Australians abroad. Each year we handle over 20,000 cases involving Australians in difficulty overseas. This includes over 700 hospitalisations, 600 deaths and 100 evacuations of Australians to another location for medical purposes.

In cases where victims are not covered by travel insurance, such personal tragedies are further compounded by a long-term financial burden. Hospitalisation, medical evacuations, or even the return of the deceased's remains to Australia, can be very expensive. Daily hospitalisation costs in Southeast Asia regularly exceed $800; return of remains from Europe in excess of $10,000. The cost of medical evacuations from the United States regularly range from $75,000 to $95,000 and sometimes up to $300,000. The department has handled medical evacuations from nearby Bali in which costs have exceeded $60,000.

Unfortunately, not all of these cases involved travellers covered by travel insurance. Travellers who are not covered by insurance are personally liable for covering incurred medical and associated costs. As a result, we have known instances where families have been forced to sell off assets, including their superannuation or family homes, to bring loved ones back to Australia for treatment.

Despite these stark statistics, it is not the department's intention to discourage Australians from travelling, which in almost all cases is a very positive experience. Only 0.6% of Australians travelling overseas encounter difficulty each year.

Instead, one of our key messages to Australian travellers is that there are things you can do to help reduce the likelihood of becoming one of the more unhappy consular statistics. With accidents or illness often unavoidable, proper travel insurance is very important in this context. Of course, the all-too-common occurrence of theft and loss of personal belongings is also something all Australian travellers should insure against. Each year the department handles over 16,000 cases involving the welfare of Australians who have suffered illness, theft, robbery or assault.

In choosing a policy, we would note some insurance policies will not always cover claims made in those countries to which the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade recommends against travel. For up-to-date travel advice, we recommend travellers consult and monitor this website.

Where Australians cannot obtain travel insurance to cover their personal medical circumstances, they should consider the potential financial risks very carefully before deciding whether to proceed with planned travel overseas.

For further information, the Insurance Council of Australia (PDF) and the Insurance Ombudsman Service (PDF) have issued guides on travel insurance for travellers. They cover the main issues to look for when selecting travel insurance to ensure you are appropriately and adequately covered.

Packs

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:38:21 +0000

Just wondering what brand of packs people bought/found useful. Any brands I should be wary of?

I was looking at a BlackWolf pack that has a detachable day pack with lots of pockets (something I need because I have to take medication and need multiple pockets to easily access other things). It had a picture of an umbrella with some rain on it. I'm taking that to mean it is waterproof - or at least water resistant?

Anyway, what other packs are water-proof/mud proof?!

Waterproofing Packs

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:56:44 +0000

My other half wants to bring a hootchie to cover our packs at the campsite. Our tent is a small tent to fit the pair of us, but nothing else - so our packs won't fit in there with us.

He wants the hootchie to cover our packs so that they are not out in the open in the weather and available to the local animals in the area.

Thoughts on this please...

fluppy

Wet Weather Gear/ Rain Jackets?

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 10:57:58 +0000

Hi

Whilst due to the heat and humidity I would doubt if one would actually wear any sort of rain coat whilst actually trekking as it would I feel be just as wet wearing a coat due to perspiration etc.

Around a camp site if raining I feel a light weight rain 3/4 length rain jacket would be suitable.

I am wonder what others have used or would having trekked Kokoda suggest be worn?

My own experience of wearing a rain coat when walking has been in cold, sometimes vey cold, wet climates where keeping moisture off ones body is essential, wet bodies get cold and colder, dry bodies stay warm we wore thermal or thicker woollen clothing under our gore-tex coats to help with ventilation and keep the body dry, cannot see one ever doing this on Kokoda besides the weight of my gore-tex coat, I feel, is out of the question.

Be very interested to hear from others on rain wear etc.

Just a thought Hats waterproof or not?

Brian
Not long off going now.

Lunges/lunge-walking

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 04:01:52 +0000

I was just thinking...I do these as part of my regular gym program and they hurt like all hell sometimes - after about 25-50 each leg for 100-150 metres, I'm sure yours would be burning too!

Anyway, I was thinking about incorporating these into my training for Kokoda.

Any thoughts?

Train On Mt Ngun Ngun

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:24:04 +0000

If you are lucky enough to live around or near the Sunshine Coast, we are blessed with some great mountains to train on for the Kokoda Track. Mt Beerburrum, located just out of the township of Beerburrum, is 276M high, but don't be fooled, the winding cement path around the mountain takes you around 750M to the top and gives your legs a good workout, allow yourself about an hour to do this one, with a break at the top, this is a great walk to start with your pack.
Mt Ngun Ngun, at Glasshouse Mountains township is probably the closest thing I have found to the track, the walk from the base is easy, and then you start to climb, it is actually smaller than Mt Beerburrum at 236M, but a lot harder. They say to allow 2 hours for this one, but we did it very easy in 1 1/2 hours, including a break at the top. When you get to the top, the view is breathtaking, a 360 deg view of all the Glasshouse Mountains, all you have to do is multiply that by about 7 hours a day, up and down, and you will have some idea of how hard the track is.
Mt Tibrogargan is 282m, with a steep walk from the base, and then a extreamly hard climb to the top, this is for more expierenced trekkers, and you will need good hiking boots for both Mt Ngun Ngun and Mt Tibrogargan. Don't attempt either on your own or any of them if there has been any wet weather.
http://www.glasshousemountains.com.au/mountains.htm

Is It Normal To Get A Sore Back When Walking?

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:51:27 +0000

Just wondering - as I've been doing some walking lately instead of catching the bus and find after walking all day my back is quite sore. I have scoliosis, but this is not normally a problem.

Should I think about taking some Deep Heat/Dencorub/muscle-pain relieving cream with me on my trek to Kokoda?

Gateway Hotel

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 01:44:44 +0000

Is the Gateway Hotel close enough to walk to from the Airport? Or do KTL pick us up?

What are the best options for hotel transfers in PT Moresby? We leave in 4 weeks.

How Do I Prevent Hand Blisters

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 05:11:53 +0000

Hi guys and girls
Just a quick question how can I stop blisters on my hand from when I walk with a stick
I have just been using any old stick I can find in the bush
And every time I use one the part in between my thumb and fore finger gets blistered

cheers

Money

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 07:50:51 +0000

I was just wanting to no how much kena is needed along the way on the trail.

Underwear On Kokoda

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 04:43:43 +0000

Hello,

I am doing Kokoda in the next month, and have one last thing to get... Underwear!

I have a pair of bike shorts to wear under my shorts, however I don't feel comfortable "freeballing" underneath them... what sort of underwear should I look for?

I obviously want to stay away from Cotton, how is Nylon or Lycra any better?

What have other people done???

Thanking you in anticipation.

Cheers,

Michael

Places To Stay Or Camp?

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 06:56:33 +0000

Hi,

Does anybody know of places to camp or stay along the road connecting Kokoda and Popondetta for trekkers.

Thanks, Stewart

Places To Stay Or Camp?

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:58:51 +0000

Hi,

Was wondering if anybody knows of places to stay or campsites for hikers/backpackers along the road that connects Kokoda and Popondetta.

Thanks, Stewart

Caribee Backpacks

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:35:26 +0000

Hi.
Does anyone have anything good or bad to say about Caribee backpacks, in particular the 80 litre Black Peak model.

Shin Splints

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 03:44:41 +0000

I get these when I power-walk or walk normally for long distances. Does anyone know of any exercises I can do to lesson the pressure (which later turns into pain)?

How would I go about preparing and training for Kokoda with these?

It's not as if I'm able to bring a personal masseur along with me, so some advice in this area would be greatly appreciated.

Poles - Help Or Hindrance?

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:46:47 +0000

Hi

Its less than 2 weeks till I leave to do Kokoda ... and I know I am leaving my run a bit late but I was wondering what peoples thoughts are on the necessity of walking poles for Kokoda?

Are they really necessary or can the walk be done without them .. needless to say I'm yet to purchase any...

Thanks in anticipation

Redmango

Anyone Know Where I Can Buy A Kryovac

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 22:44:38 +0000

Or whatever those meat things are that vacuum seal your goods?

I Need To Pee!

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 22:43:48 +0000

Just wondering how the toileting system goes. If you need to go, do you tell the group to keep walking and you'll catch up to them or do they wait while you do what you need to do or do you just gotta hold?

Bit embarrassed about asking this, but with the world's smallest bladder and then drinking 3L+ water, I don't foresee me holding for that long! Let's face it, when you gotta go, you gotta go - and you gotta go NOW!!!

Quick Query On Vaseline

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 11:23:44 +0000

Hi All,

Have read on this forum that it pays to put Vaseline on your feet prior to your socks before walking each day. When I went to purchase today I got a little confused...do I need the normal Vaseline in the tub (the gel type stuff) or do I need the Vaseline Intensive Care Cream ?

Thanks

Skins ?

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 06:10:15 +0000

Hi All,

Another quick question. Do I need 1 or 2 lots of skins ? Do they dry quick enough to only have the 1 pair for the whole trek...or should I have two for one pair on and one pair drying out - as I assume these are washed with everything else each night ?

Thanks

Expected Weather Conditions?

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 01:03:53 +0000

Hi all.

I am doing the trek starting from 30/6/08. Was wondering if anyone had an idea as to what the weather is normally like in early July.

Toilet Seat Covers

Sat, 31 May 2008 22:46:43 +0000

In a travel shop, I found travel accessories and one of these travel accessories were toilet seat covers, about $15.00 for a pack of ten, and they are bio-degradable.. Wish I had seen these before I went.. The toilet issue up there is indescribable, I had to laugh at one posting on here, ' only the most pickky female would find the toilets awful' dear god, where the hell was he bought up!! These covers fit over the top of the toilet seat and the ones I saw were impregnated with anti-bacterial, these with some antibacterial wipes, and some disinfectant ( the hand washing stuff you don't need water with) should go someway towards making it a little more comfortable, and a whole lot safer to use.