by Kiwiana Ngabung – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
The Kokoda Trek has always been known for its deep and rich history. However, the lack of memorials and historical information along it has been a misfortune; something that The Kokoda Memorial Foundation is pushing for.
The not-for-profit organisation founded in 1998 is looking to build and maintain memorials along the 96km track, to keep the history alive.
Eric Winn, one of the foundation’s founding members, says their plan is to build memorials all along the Kokoda Trek so it tells a story.
Another member of the foundation, Len Thompson, says that the foundation exists to make sure that history isn’t forgotten.
“We came to ensure that that history is not forgotten, and it is there for everybody to see,” Thompson said in an interview with ABC Australia.
Thompson says that the memorial plaques are also story plaques, because they can give a perception of what happened during the World War.
“It’s more to provide information for generations that will be walking the track to be able to see and learn from what went on in that location,” Thompson said.
The Kokoda Memorial Foundation has already done great – establishing the Kokoda archways at both ends of the track, replacing the defaced original Bisset Plaque at Isurava, and even making donations to locals living around the Kokoda area.
They are now auctioning an Australian Rugby jersey signed by every living captain since 1939, in a bid to raise funds for two Bisset memorials.
