Hawthorn revived a much-loved tradition earlier this month, as players journeyed to the Kokoda Track for the first time since 2011.

This year’s group consisted of 12 young players, spurred on by senior coach Alastair Clarkson. Since 2004, the club has sent more than 150 representatives to the home of the ANZAC’s momentous war battle.

Young Hawk Kade Stewart was honoured to share in the experience.

“There were a few challenges along the way, but just to see what everyone went through and what really happened, and setting foot on the ground where they fought was really touching.” 

“At the end of the track, you think back and realise how amazing an experience you’ve had and I’m glad we did it.”

The boys completed a number gruelling tasks throughout their journey, including carrying a loaded stretcher and heavy logs along the track for several hours.

Stewart believes the entire experience has fostered a stronger culture between the playing group.

“To spend a whole seven days with the same people and getting that connection you never knew you had with some of the blokes was really good.

“And that holds you in good stead for the years to come… Just to build that culture with that group was really good, and it’s only going to grow from there.”

Through their connection with the track, Hawthorn continues to foster their relationship with the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF).

KTF improve the wellbeing and futures of the Papua New Guinean people by assisting with education and healthcare, by respecting customs and the environment and by keeping the story of Kokoda alive.

Their key projects include: teacher training, health infrastructure, micro businesses and leadership programs.

To find out more about KTF head to https://ktf.ngo/.

The players that completed this year’s Kokoda trek were:

Dallas Willsmore

Kade Stewart

Kaiden Brand

Teia Miles

Kurt Heatherley

Tim O’Brien

Jono O’Rourke

Kieran Lovell

Billy Hartung

Luke Surman

James Sicily

Daniel Howe