Each year, teams of St James College students and teachers tackle the Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge to raise funds for The Kokoda Youth Foundation.  Each team is charged with raising $500 to support local youth programs aimed at transforming the lives of children. 

The teams of four are sponsored by college partners TechnoloygOne who also enter a number of teams and provide registration fees, uniforms and trekking supplies. Furthermore, TechnologOne hosts bootcamp strength training sessions attended by team members.

The hike will see Year 7 and 8 students trek 30kms and Year 9 – 12 students trek a staggering 48kms. The students will have teachers, parents and supporters by their side with the group already in training as they walk their way through Mt Coot-tha tracks in preparation for the event. 

Long House Dean Mr David Tan said that students stand a lot to gain by participating in the treks that could take up to 20 hours to complete.

“Our hope is that students build their physical and mental resilience and develop a strong understanding of nutrition,” Tan said.

“Last year we witnessed some huge life transformations in the students.

“We saw an increase in physical fitness and mental wellness.

“We hope the experience will help this year’s students grow their physical and mental resilience, build their confidence, and instill in them Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice (The Spirit of Kokoda)” Tan said.

Students will host a number of fundraising initiatives in the lead up to the event so they can meet their fundraising goals. 

To support the cause, reach out to the college to find out how to get involved.