In this powerful episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, tGlenn shares a heart-wrenching story of a young soldier who fought in one of the most pivotal battles of World War II. The story of Private Joseph Rovkin, a 16-year-old boy who enlisted in the Australian Army and died in combat, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by young men during the Kokoda campaign.

The episode delves into the complexities of Joe's story, exploring how he concealed his Jewish identity to join the army and the reasons behind his decision. Glenn takes listeners on a journey through Joe's life, from his childhood in Sydney to his enlistment and eventual deployment to Papua New Guinea. Along the way, we learn about the challenges he faced and the people who were affected by his death.

This episode is a moving tribute to the young men who fought in the Kokoda campaign, many of whom were barely out of their teens. Glenn's narrative is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering the stories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. By sharing Joe's story, he aims to keep the spirit of Kokoda alive and to honor the memories of those who fought and died in the campaign.

If you're interested in learning more about the Kokoda Track and the people who trekked it, this episode is a must-listen.

Glenn's passion and respect for the subject matter shine through, making this a compelling and emotional listen. Join us as we explore the history and significance of the Kokoda Track and the people who were affected by it.

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The Kokoda Track Podcast delves into the stories of two Aboriginal men who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. Their names, Private George Leonard and Private Harold West, are etched in history as two brothers in arms who fought side by side in the treacherous terrain of Papua New Guinea. This episode is a poignant reminder of the bravery and camaraderie that defined their service.

In this episode, we explore the lives of George and Harold, from their childhood in northwestern New South Wales to their enlistment in the Australian Army and their deployment to the Middle East and Papua. We learn about their skills as trackers and their experiences on the Kokoda Track, where they faced unimaginable challenges and made the ultimate sacrifice. Their stories are a testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous Australians who served their country with honor and distinction.

The Kokoda Track Podcast sheds light on the often-overlooked stories of Indigenous servicemen who fought in World War II. We hear about the discriminatory enlistment rules and recruiting practices that created barriers for Indigenous volunteers, and how these men persevered despite the odds. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of Indigenous Australians in our nation's history.

If you're interested in learning more about the stories of George and Harold, and the experiences of Indigenous Australians during World War II, tune in to this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast. You'll hear about the challenges they faced, the bravery they showed, and the lasting impact of their service on their communities and our nation.

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Imagine walking through the dense jungle, the sounds of birds and insects filling the air, as you make your way along the infamous Kokoda Track. This week on the Kokoda Track podcast, we're joined by four friends who embarked on this incredible adventure together, sharing their stories and insights from their journey.

In this episode, we hear from Tammy, Scott, Nathan, and Hayley as they recount their experiences on the track, from the physical challenges they faced to the emotional moments that made their journey truly unforgettable. They share their thoughts on what they expected versus what they encountered, and how their experiences changed them in ways they never could have imagined. From the beautiful scenery to the cultural encounters, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the Kokoda Track.

The group's conversations are filled with laughter and camaraderie, but also with moments of introspection and self-discovery. They talk about the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and the value of stepping out of their comfort zones. As they share their stories, it's clear that this experience has had a profound impact on each of them, and they're eager to inspire others to take on their own adventures.

If you're considering tackling the Kokoda Track, or simply want to hear the stories of those who have done it, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we delve into the world of the Kokoda Track and discover the lessons and insights that await.

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Bert Kienzle rarely appears in the headlines of Kokoda history, but his contribution to the campaign was extraordinary.

In this episode, Glenn explores how a plantation owner and expert bushman became the architect of the logistics system that kept Australian troops supplied across the Owen Stanley Ranges. Discover why logistics win wars, how the Papuan carriers became the backbone of the campaign, and why Kienzle's legacy still shapes every Kokoda trek today.

Key Takeaways

• Bert Kienzle transformed an inadequate carrier system into an effective wartime logistics network.
• Victory at Kokoda depended as much on logistics as it did on battlefield tactics.
• The Papuan carriers were indispensable to the success of the campaign.
• Leadership is about expertise, relationships and influence—not simply rank.
• Preparation and planning are often the unseen foundations of success.
• Every Kokoda trek today follows in the footsteps of an extraordinary logistical achievement.

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This episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and find strength in the face of challenge. Join the speaker as they sit down with an inspiring guest, Robyn, who shares her remarkable journey of overcoming breast cancer and completing the Kokoda Track.

Robyn's story is one of resilience and determination, as she navigates the physical and emotional challenges of the track while also dealing with the aftermath of her cancer treatment. Her experience is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible. The conversation also touches on the importance of preparation, the role of porters in the trekking experience, and the emotional highs and lows of the journey.

The episode also delves into the theme of mental preparation and the importance of being comfortable with discomfort. Robyn's experience as an adventurer and her background in paramedicine inform her approach to the track, and she shares valuable insights on how to manage fatigue, pain, and other physical challenges. The conversation is also peppered with stories of the track's history, culture, and the people who make the experience so special.

If you're planning to tackle the Kokoda Track or are simply looking for inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation and hear Robyn's incredible story in full, as she shares her experiences, insights, and advice for anyone looking to push themselves to new heights.

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After 84 years, the remains of Lieutenant Hercules William Crawford—the last missing member of the 39th Battalion’s original Kokoda force—have been formally identified.

Lieutenant Hercules William Crawford is no longer missing. More importantly, he is no longer unknown. Today, I want to tell you his story.

In this episode, we honour Lieutenant Crawford’s life and service, explain how he could be buried at Bomana War Cemetery while still being listed as missing in action, and explore the painstaking work required to restore an unknown soldier’s identity. We also pay our respects to every Australian serviceman and woman who remains missing, and to the families who continue waiting for answers.

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Imagine walking through the dense jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the weight of history. This episode of the Kokoda Track podcast takes you on a journey with two friends, Kirsty and Chris, as they share their experiences trekking the Kokoda Track. From their training regimens to the emotional highs and lows of the journey, they open up about what it takes to conquer this challenging terrain.

As they reflect on their experience, Kirsty and Chris talk about the emotional aspects of the journey, including the sense of pride and accomplishment they felt when they completed the track. They also discuss the importance of being open and vulnerable with others, sharing their stories and experiences in a way that helped them connect with their fellow trekkers.

If you're considering tackling the Kokoda Track, this episode is a must-listen. Kirsty and Chris offer valuable insights and advice on what to expect and how to prepare. Join them as they share their story and inspire you to take on your own challenges. Listen to their full conversation to hear more about their journey and the lessons they learned along the way.

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Should you take your child to Kokoda?

It's one of the questions I'm asked most often. In this episode, I share why I firmly believe Kokoda can be one of the most transformative experiences for young people aged 11–17, provided they're well prepared and supported by experienced leaders. We explore the physical, mental and emotional benefits, what parents should consider before booking, and why challenge—not comfort—is often the greatest gift we can give our children. From resilience and confidence to leadership, gratitude and history, Kokoda has lessons that can shape a young person's life forever.

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Emotional Journeys and Leadership Lessons from the Kokoda Track

This episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast is a poignant and thought-provoking conversation between two experienced trek leaders, Glenn and Fiona, who share their personal stories and insights on the emotional and physical challenges of trekking the Kokoda Track. The episode is a tribute to the last surviving Australian veteran of the Kokoda Campaign, Reginald James Chard, who passed away at the age of 102.

Glenn and Fiona discuss their own experiences trekking the Kokoda Track, including their first encounters with the challenging terrain and the emotional connections they formed with the people and the land. They also delve into the importance of leadership and the need for trek leaders to be trained in how to handle difficult situations, including medical emergencies and conflicts with group members. Fiona shares her own experience of losing a trekker on a previous trip and how it affected her, while Glenn talks about his experience of dealing with a difficult situation on a recent trip.

Throughout the episode, Glenn and Fiona emphasize the importance of gratitude, self-reflection, and community building on the Kokoda Track. They also discuss the need for trek leaders to be aware of their own limitations and to prioritize the well-being of their group members. The conversation is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the Kokoda Track experience and the lessons that can be learned from it.

If you're considering trekking the Kokoda Track or are simply interested in the stories and experiences of those who have done so, this episode is a must-listen. Join Glenn and Fiona as they share their insights and reflections on the Kokoda Track and the people who have been touched by it.

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The Only Woman at Bomana

Among more than 3,800 Commonwealth war graves at Bomana War Cemetery lies a single woman—RAAF nurse Sister Marie Eileen Craig.

In this episode, we honour her remarkable life and reflect on a powerful truth: not every casualty of war dies in battle. Some give their lives serving humanity, caring for the wounded and bringing hope to others.

Join Glenn as he shares the story of the only woman buried at Bomana, explores the vital role of military nurses during World War II, and reminds us that courage isn't always found on the front line—sometimes it's found in compassion.

A moving tribute to a remarkable Australian whose service and sacrifice deserve to be remembered.

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