For the first time in its 20-year history, Australia's toughest team endurance event - the Kokoda Challenge is making its highly-anticipated Sydney debut, promising Challengers the ultimate test of grit, stamina, and mateship in a hiking adventure like no other. This isn't your average fun run or charity event but the resilience and teamwork it demands gives participants an unmatched sense of achievement and camaraderie that makes every step worth it.
On 20 September 2025, Sydney's Kokoda Challenge will see teams of 2-5 take on the 18km, 48km, or the premier 96km hike, winding through the breathtaking trails of the Heathcote and Royal National Parks.
The anticipation is buzzing as we approach this historic first, with Helensburgh taking the stage as the official starting line at Rex Jackson Oval at 7:30am.
Not just for seasoned hikers or elite athletes, the event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels. We're excited to see students, teachers, friends, families, grandparents and colleagues, all registered for this event, proving that anyone can give it a go.
Since 2005, thousands of Australians have tackled the iconic challenge across its Queensland events, discovering just how far they can push themselves. Now, over 500 brave challengers are set to embrace the Kokoda spirit in a Sydney's first-ever event, each motivated by their own personal "why" to conquer the challenge.
Shanna, one of our 18km Challengers, is taking part to help motivate her students and to get them out of their comfort zone. She explained it this way: 'I want to show students that anything is possible, and to motivate and inspire them to do what fills their cup, while also developing their own self-awareness, empathy, resilience and leadership.'
Every step supports a mission that goes far beyond the finish line: changing the lives of Australian youth, while honouring the lives of our Aussie diggers who fought along the Kokoda Track in 1942. Participants raise funds for the Challenge, and this money goes directly to operate Kokoda Youth Foundation's free, transformative youth programs. These successful programs have helped over 1,300 young people so far, equipping disengaged teens with valuable tools and guidance to develop self-confidence and unlock their full potential.
Rachel, another 18km Challenger, explains her reason for getting involved in the challenge: 'Having young children who are exposed to a life of screens, I want to help break the narrative.'
Participation in the Kokoda Challenge helps support the Kokoda Youth Foundation's fully funded programs, including the Digital Detox Program, recently featured on ABC, which empowers teens to unplug, develop healthy tech habits, and build confidence and resilience. The funds raised by this Kokoda Challenge will fund the first Digital Detox Program in Sydney, which is running from 18-25 January 2026 at Teen Ranch in Sydney.
For those ready to rise to the ultimate test, the 96km course pays tribute to the legendary Kokoda Campaign in 1942, challenging teams to conquer unforgiving elevation and terrain in just 39 hours. While the standout 96km trek is set to push the ultimate limits, the event as a whole is shaping up to be an inspiring day full that will witness determination, teamwork and unforgettable achievements in a historic debut for Sydney.
We invite your media outlet to help shine a spotlight on an incredible cause and to support Kokoda Youth Foundation's mission to transform the lives of Australian youth.
