UNTIL now, the only way to explore the battlefields of the Kokoda Campaign has been on a gruelling 10-day trek - a challenge that tests the fitness and spirit of all who attempt it.
But now, thanks to an innovative tour designed by historian Mat McLachlan, founder of Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours, travellers can visit key sites from this pivotal WWII campaign without the blisters and bruises.
The Kokoda 75th Anniversary Tour - Without Trekking will enable you to visit the hallowed ground of the Kokoda Track with ease and in comfort, without the need to pull on the hiking boots.
There you can pay your respects to the 2000 Australians who were killed or wounded in the bloody campaign.
Beginning in Port Moresby, the tour visits key sites by air-conditioned vehicle, including Bomana War Cemetery, the largest Australian military cemetery in the world, and Ower's Corner, which marks the beginning of the Kokoda Track. From there the tour will fly by chartered plane to the village of Kokoda, enjoying magnificent views of the track en route.
At Kokoda, the group will explore the scenes of some of the toughest fights of the campaign, and commemorate the 75th anniversary of the recapture of Kokoda by Australian troops with a flag-raising ceremony.
The tour then visits the villages of Buna, Gona and Sanananda, scenes of heavy fighting during the Beachhead battles, which marked the end of the Kokoda Campaign.
The seven-day tour begins in Port Moresby on October 31. The cost is $4397 per person (twin share, land only), and includes all accommodation, transport, guiding services by expert war historian and most meals.
- 1300-880-340, www.battlefields.com.au