FAQ's
If we haven't answered your question here (and it's not urgent) why not post it in the Challenge Chat forum?
Q. How do I register as a volunteer?
A. Anyone over the age of 16 can volunteer. Please email James at info@kokodachallenge.com
Q. What is the Kokoda Challenge Youth Program?
A. The Kokoda Challenge Youth Program is a 12 month commitment that seeks to teach young people that their achievements in life are directly related to the effort they contribute, whether that be at school, work, professionally or in personal relationships. The first 20 weeks consist of training and team building activities that develop physical fitness and prepare participants for the challenge of a lifetime – walking the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea.
This life changing experience is followed by a further six months of community service activities where participants regularly volunteer their time to local not-for-profit organisations and events such as Landcare projects, Surfing with the Disabled and working with the homeless and elderly.
Q. How do I register to be considered for the Youth Program?
A. Please contact The Kokoda Challenge Association office on 5539 4141 and speak with Dan Crowell, our Youth Worker.
Q. What is a Youth Leader?
A. A Youth Leader is somebody who volunteers their time to asssist in the management and experiential learning that the youths in the Kokoda Challenge Youth Program undertake. This role is very hands-on and takes a special person to dedicate and commit to the training, leadership and mentoring that the role requires.
Q. How do I register to be a Leader?
A. Applications are invited for Leader places in 2012, should you wish to discuss opportunities, please contact Doug, Kokoda Challenge Chairman on 07 5539 4141.
Q. When is The Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge?
A. The Kokoda Challenge 2012 takes place on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July. Participants will trek a 96km course that leads along fire trails, crosses 12 creeks and summits 5,000m of vertical elevation. The goal is to finish as a complete team of four in honour of the spirit forged on the Kokoda Track in 1942: mateship, endurance, courage and sacrifice.
Q. When do registrations open for The Challenge?
A. In 2012, pre-registration was made available on January 9th to past participants in a previous Kokoda Challenge. The 150 spots filled in just 9 minutes!
Registrations for the remaining places will open on February 1st 2012.
Q. How old do I have to be to participate?
A. You must be 18 or over to participate in The Kokoda Challenge in a team. If participants are 16 and over, they must be accompanied by an adult and a submit a signed waiver form. For those teams who are under 16 years of age, the Stan Bisset Cup and Jim Stillman Cup are a great alternative.
Q. How much does it cost to enter and is this fee tax deductable?
A. Entry into The Kokoda Challenge is $440.00 This is an entry fee and is not tax deductable, or refundable. There is also a minimum fundraising component of $1500.00 which is tax deductable.
Q. Where does the money go?
A. The majority of the fundraising money raised by teams goes directly to The Kokoda Challenge Youth Program. Since inception six years ago, The Kokoda Challenge Youth Program has made a difference in the lives of 268 young people, with 70 graduating in 2012. Of those that have completed the youth program (93% of total intake complete the program), 95% of them said that the youth program was a turning point in their lives.
Q. Do I have to participate in a walk to be able raise money for the Kokoda Challenge Youth Program?
A. No. You may donate via the website or by calling The Kokoda Challenge Association office on 07 5539 4141.
Q. Is there any area of the website where I can go if I am a registered team, looking for further information or advice on training?
A. Yes. There is a Participant Only area that can be accessed with team login and password details. There is also a dedicated area called Challenge Chat which allows teams to freely discuss training tips and other info with each other. All comments and posts made on Challenge Chat must be appropriate for family viewing. Any posts seen to not be in the Spirit of the Association will be deleted without explanation.
