What was the Kokoda Track campaign?
The Kokoda Track campaign was a series of battles fought in 1942 between Australian and Japanese forces in the mountains of Papua, then an Australian territory. It is one of Australia's most important World War II campaigns.
In July 1942, Japanese forces landed on the north coast of Papua and advanced along the Kokoda Track, a rugged path over the Owen Stanley Range. Their goal was to capture Port Moresby.
Australian troops, including young militia soldiers, fought a series of desperate rearguard actions in difficult jungle terrain, heavy rain and disease.
Turning the tide
By September 1942, the Japanese advance was halted at Ioribaiwa, just over 40 kilometres from Port Moresby. Australian forces then pushed the Japanese back along the track.
Papuan carriers helped the Australians by carrying supplies and wounded soldiers. They became known as the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels for their care of injured men.
More than 600 Australians were killed on the Kokoda Track itself. Today, the track is a popular but challenging trek of about 96 kilometres, completed by thousands of Australians who want to honor those who fought there.