One of the trekkers, veteran Bob Kelly, carried the spirit of his uncles Frank and Harry Osborne with him while he tackled the track.

Bob served in the Vietnam War as a medic, and like many others, came home with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He said completing the track was a life-changing experience and helped him tackle his demons.

“It can be quite emotional and it was very hard, but I enjoyed every minute of it,” he said.He said the experienced Mates4Mates team helped each member of the group deal with emotions they were feeling throughout the long walk.

“Everyone who can walk it, should do it,” he said.

Throughout the trek tremendous bonds were built, barriers broken and friendships formed. Thank you to FBAA, who sponsored ten Mates to participate in the life-changing journey. Completing the Kokoda Trek for this group of wounded Mates has helped them on their journey towards healing so they may lead happier, healthier lives.