Last week we made history by debuting our iconic Kokoda Challenge in Sydney for the very first time!
This event was 20 years in the making and comes after two decades of successful Kokoda Challenge events across Queensland. Now, officially crossing borders, Kokoda Youth Foundation ignited the spirit of Kokoda, and inspired a whole new wave of challengers across NSW.
A total of 500 challengers rose to the occasion, lacing up their boots and setting out on an epic journey of up to 96km through the breathtaking landscapes of Helensburgh, through to Heathcote, for the first time ever. It was great to see Sydney participants pushing themselves, and their teams, to the limit, showing the same courage, endurance, sacrifice and mateship synonymous with this event series.
The success of our first Sydney Kokoda Challenge is more than just a milestone event; it’s a significant step forward in Kokoda Youth Foundation’s mission to empower young Australians. Raising a monumental $160K, the impact of Sydney’s first Kokoda Challenge will last way beyond the trails, opening doors for young Australians to step into our transformative and free programs.
The Kokoda Youth Foundation is excited to build on the success of our debut and we look forward to returning to Sydney in 2026, as well as bringing our Digital Detox Programs launching in January. This is just the beginning Sydney!
This year’s Brisbane Kokoda Challenge was special in more ways than one. A particular highlight for the Foundation was witnessing Year 11 student, Cooper Gray, and his team ‘The Rollers and Strollers’ from Loganlea High School, successfully complete the 18km Kokoda Challenge. Cooper has cerebral palsy and was our very first participant to complete this iconic event in a wheelchair. With unwavering courage and resilience, Cooper showed us all what determination truly looks like and his journey, supported by a dedicated team of teachers and students, is a powerful reminder that accessibility and inclusion must be at the heart of everything we do.
This is more than just a story of one student — it’s a celebration of what’s possible when we remove barriers and support every person to achieve their goals. Congratulations, Cooper. You’ve inspired a whole community.
Check out Cooper’s Kokoda Challenge journey, featuring footage from 7 News.
Every Kokoda Challenge participant has a story, and every story has the power to inspire others. One of those stories was shared live on ABC Radio on 3 July, 2025. Harry Groom was days away from his second consecutive 96km Kokoda Challenge on the Gold Coast Harry, when he spoke to ABC presenter, Sarah Cumming, about his journey and his desire to continue exploring the great outdoors, against all odds.
Harry’s Story
Just over 3 years ago, Harry broke his neck in a training exercise with the Australian Army. That injury not only changed his body, but his life forever. Every step he takes causes pain to shoot down his neck, but he is determined to continue pursuing his dreams. Harry is a walking example to those who feel they’ve hit rock bottom or they can’t do it, that it is possible to push through. If you’re chasing a dream but feel like giving up, stop and ask someone to share their story – you might just find your next dose of inspiration!
About
Our People
The Kokoda Youth Foundation is a locally operated charity that has proudly supported Australian young people and their local communities for 20 years. Our experiential youth programs help young people increase their physical and mental resilience, confidence, and instil the Kokoda values of Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice through the story of the Kokoda Campaign in 1942. These programs are offered free of charge, thanks to the generosity of our supporters.
