Sydney Technical High School student, Jack McDougall will next month be tackling the emotional and physical challenge of the Kokoda Trail.
Jack has been sponsored by Club Rivers as part of this year’s Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge.
Club Rivers called for applications from local schools students to take part in the opportunity of a lifetime with a trip to complete the Kokoda trail in Papua New Guinea.
“The program is a life-changing experience that is designed to teach more about Australia’s military history and the Kokoda Trail Campaign, while building their leadership skills,” a club spokesperson said.
“After receiving a number of great applications, a panel of judges had a very tough job on their hands in selecting the right candidate.”
As the successful recipient, Jack will undertake the 10-day physical challenge in September, completing a rigorous 96km long trek with altitude changes of 300 metres to 2200m above sea-level.
The challenge will not only test Jack physically but also emotionally in his ability to deal with the difficult circumstances.
Jack is thrilled to have been given this opportunity.
“It won’t be easy but I want to be able to understand the determination that the Australians and Papuan New Guineans had in defending their country and freedom,” he said.