As part of a scholarship program supported by state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, two students in the Euroa electorate were selected to take part in the gruelling experience.
Felix Wallace-Muscovich from St Mary’s College was chosen to complete the trail alongside Flynn Mosely from Australian Christian College in Benalla.
Over the July school holidays, the Year 11 students walked in the footsteps of Australian soldiers, visiting key World War II battle sites along the way.
Felix said the trek was a fascinating experience.
“For me, walking Kokoda was a borderline spiritual experience, it’s pretty eye-opening to have walked in the steps of all those great people who were there before me,” he said.
“Walking the trail helped me to appreciate how much alike to us those Anzacs were. Of course, they were extraordinary men, but they were also sons, husbands and brothers.
“Foremost, they were people and I think we should always remember them as such, deserving of our deepest respect and compassion.”
As part of their journey, Felix and Flynn paid their respects at war cemeteries and visited the graves of soldiers from their own communities.
They were also able to connect with a particular soldier during their journey.
“We were each given a soldier to remember along the track, each of which died during the campaign,” Felix said.
“Mine was a lad named Wallie Croton, he was from Seymour like me, he was 23 when he died.
“I’d like to think we’d get along, but of course I can’t say that for certain, it’s impossible for me to know him.”
The Kokoda Trek Scholarship, valued at $6500, is made possible by the support from Brian Vial, Kilmore Racing Club, Seymour Racing Club and the Seymour Club.
Ms Cleeland said she was proud to support an initiative that connected young people with the powerful legacy of Kokoda.
“This trek is not just a physical challenge — it’s a deeply personal journey that teaches the values of courage, mateship, endurance and sacrifice,” she said.
“Supporting this program is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. I look forward to helping more young people from our region take part in this extraordinary journey in the years ahead.
“I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the local sponsors whose generosity made this possible — this kind of community support is what makes our region so special.”
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